Commissioner Jordan Hosts Building Dedication in Honor of MDPD First Black Director
MIAMI GARDENS – Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara Jordan on July 20 hosted a public dedication and renaming ceremony for the newly renamed Director Robert “Bobby” L. Parker, Sr. Professional Compliance Bureau Building in Miami Gardens. Commissioner Jordan sponsored the resolution renaming the building, which is located at 18805 NW 27th Avenue and was formerly known as the Miami-Dade Police Department Professional Compliance Bureau Building.
At left, Attendees watch as the new building designation is unveiled at the Director Robert “Bobby” L. Parker, Sr. Professional Compliance Bureau Building
At right, they pose for a picture.During the ceremony, Commissioner Jordan recalled her experiences with Director Parker. “I grew to respect him, not just as a Black chief but as a chief’s chief… a person who had dignity, integrity and did not mind speaking his mind,” she said.
“It feels absolutely amazing just to know his legacy will live on,” said Lt. Veronica Parker, Robert Parker’s widow.
Director Parker joined the Miami-Dade Police Department in 1976 and rose through the ranks to become the department’s first African American director in 2004. He served in the MDPD for over three decades and retired in 2009. After his retirement, Director Parker’s commitment to public service continued through his volunteer work, professional affiliations, and participation in initiatives, councils and boards that focused on law enforcement and public safety. Director Parker died on July 22, 2015.
