Officer Charles "Charlie" Herring - EOW 02/09/2023

On February 9, 2023, Officer Charles "Charlie" Herring was riding his departmental motorcycle down NW 184 Avenue when a falling palm frond caused him to crash along the center median.  Despite all life-saving efforts by responding officers and emergency medical personnel, Officer Herring died as a result of his injuries.

Officer Herring's tragic and sudden passing marked the first line of duty death in the Pembroke Pines Police Department's history.

Officer Herring dedicated his life to public service and was a veteran of the United States Army.  He served as a police officer for the City of Starke (FL) for three years, before joining the Pembroke Pines Police Department in June of 2002.  During his time at the PPPD, Charlie served as a Field Training Officer and was an important member of the Crisis Response Team and the Mobile Field Force.  In 2007, Charlie was selected to the Traffic Unit and became a founding member of the D.U.I. Task Force.  Three years later he transferred to the Motorcycle Squad and served with great honor until his untimely passing.  Aside from the numerous commendations Charlie received, he was recognized in 2009 with a life-saving award and as the 2015 Officer of the Year.

Charlie spent his life dedicated to his family and his career.  He enjoyed playing board games with his four children, and loved to fish, cook, grill, and travel.  Charlie was an avid reader, a fan of old western movies, and a staunch supporter of his two favorite football teams – the University of Alabama and the Miami Dolphins.  And above all his other hobbies, he loved riding his motorcycle cross country the most.

He leaves behind a countless number of friends and peers throughout the law enforcement community who mourn his loss.  His dedication to his family, city, and country will serve as an inspiration to all who follow in his footsteps.