Body Camera Footage Deleted Before Trial for Teen’s Boating Fatality
Overview of the Incident
In a concerning turn of events, critical body camera footage has been erased just months before the trial of George Pino, the reportedly intoxicated driver of a boat that crashed, resulting in the tragic death of 17-year-old Luciana Fernandez and injuries to 10 others. The unfortunate incident took place in 2022 when Pino’s 29-foot Robalo boat collided with a channel marker near Boca Chita.
Key Events
- Accident Date: 2022
- Victim: Luciana Fernandez, 17 (later died from injuries)
- Accused: George Pino, prominent Miami real estate broker
- Charges: Felony vessel homicide filed in 2024
Deletion of Body Camera Footage
The body camera footage showing interactions between officers and Pino, particularly an officer’s attempt to determine his level of intoxication, has been erased. This has raised significant concerns among advocates and the victim’s family.
Community Reaction
Brent Fannin, a member of the grassroots coalition Wild Florida Alliance, expressed outrage, stating, “It’s completely unacceptable when it comes to a man who has killed a young girl.”
Official Statements
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) explained that the footage was classified as incidental and subsequently deleted after the retention period expired. They stated:
“The officers categorized their videos as incidental, which, under the existing policy, was an appropriate classification… In addition, the officers did not delete their BWC videos; this is a process within the system that is automatic once the retention period for the specific category of video has been met.”
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Despite this explanation, concerns linger regarding the clarity of policies for categorizing body camera footage.
Criticism of the Investigation
The investigation into the crash has faced significant scrutiny. Fannin claims it was poorly conducted, stating:
“The investigation should’ve been pretty straightforward, but it wasn’t. It was completely botched.”
He also pointed to a statement by FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto, labeling the incident as a mere “human error” without offering a comprehensive explanation.
Response from Fernandez’s Family
An attorney for Luciana Fernandez’s family stated:
“The Fernandez Family is not prepared to make a statement at this time because of the pending criminal litigation and because they need time to process what they have now just learned.”
Despite the ongoing legal battle, the family has been active in pushing for stricter boating regulations, resulting in the enactment of “Lucy’s Law.”
Legal Representation for Pino
George Pino’s lead defense attorney, Howard Srebnick, voiced concerns regarding the deletion of the body camera footage. Notably, Officer Julian Gazzola’s deposition revealed he observed Pino with “bloodshot eyes” and a “scent of an alcoholic beverage,” points not mentioned in Gazzola’s initial report two weeks after the incident.
Upcoming Trial Details
- Trial Date: Scheduled for July 2025
- Charges: Felony vessel homicide against George Pino
Conclusion
As the trial approaches, questions regarding the investigation’s integrity and the deletion of crucial evidence remain at the forefront. The community continues to seek justice for Luciana Fernandez while calling for more stringent boating regulations to prevent future tragedies.
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