Miami Firefighter Arrested After Allegedly Exposing Himself to Two Women During Separate Incidents
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — A firefighter-paramedic with Miami Fire-Rescue is under arrest and facing disturbing allegations after two women reported being followed and exposed to lewd behavior during their morning walks in separate incidents.
The accused, 34-year-old Demetrious Reshad Sams, was taken into custody early Tuesday at his Homestead apartment, approximately 20 miles from where the first reported incident took place. According to law enforcement sources and official arrest records, Sams is charged with indecent exposure and is currently being held as investigations into additional cases continue.
🚨 Allegations and Arrest
The first reported incident occurred around 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, near SW 86th Street and 58th Avenue in South Miami. The victim told police that Sams followed her in a black 2021 Dodge Charger, exposed himself, and began touching himself in her presence.
A witness recorded the car’s license plate, which ultimately led police to Sams. The victim later identified him in a photo lineup. He was arrested without incident on June 18.
🎙 Victim Speaks Out
In a follow-up interview with CBS News Miami, the victim expressed both fear and frustration at learning the suspect was a public servant.
“He should be a trusted, respected member of our community like all other firefighters,” she said. “It is just completely out of line. I would like other women to come forward so no one else will have that type of experience.”
She added that the incident has robbed her of a sense of safety in her own neighborhood.
“I very much enjoyed walking through my neighborhood. It is a nice and safe community, and I feel that has been taken away. It’s very scary for many women who walk and bike ride.”
The woman has not resumed her walks since the incident and now urges others to walk in pairs and remain alert.
🔍 Pattern of Behavior?
South Miami Police Sergeant Fernando Bosch confirmed that Sams is being investigated in connection with four to five additional cases in nearby Coral Gables. Authorities believe Sams may have engaged in similar behavior in multiple municipalities.
“We believe this has been going on for a while,” Bosch said. “These things tend to escalate, and we believe he has done it to other victims not known to police.”
Investigators are actively encouraging other victims to come forward to assist in the case.
🚒 Fire Department Responds
In a statement to the media, Miami Fire-Rescue confirmed that a four-year department veteran had been arrested and that an internal investigation is pending.
“The Department holds all personnel to the highest standards and does not tolerate conduct, on or off duty, that is inconsistent with the values of a City of Miami firefighter,” said spokesperson Pete Sanchez.
Though the statement did not name Sams directly, Sanchez indicated that formal contact is being established in order to begin a comprehensive review of the firefighter’s conduct.
⚖️ Legal Status
At the time of publication, Sams remains in custody. CBS News Miami reported that a family member of Sams had reached out to a criminal defense attorney, though no legal representation has been formally retained as of Wednesday.
📞 How to Report Information
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information or similar experiences to contact:
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South Miami Police Department: (305) 663-6301
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Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers: (305) 471-TIPS (8477)
