Deputy Leonard “Leo” Cantave of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office was recognized on March 26 for his actions during a traffic incident on the Florida Turnpike, when he pushed a Doral police officer out of harm’s way moments before being struck by an alleged drunk driver on Dec. 27, 2025.
The incident highlights the risks law enforcement officers face while responding to emergencies and their commitment to protecting others, even at great personal cost.
According to body camera footage from the scene, Deputy Cantave stopped to assist Florida Highway Patrol troopers with a multivehicle crash. He positioned his patrol car in an inside lane with emergency lights activated to shield those involved. While checking on one of the drivers and interacting with a Doral officer, Cantave noticed an approaching vehicle swerving toward them. In response, he pushed the officer away just before being hit himself.
Cantave suffered multiple injuries including broken bones and internal injuries. He was airlifted in critical condition to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital where he underwent several surgeries and months of rehabilitation. During an awards ceremony recognizing his actions, Cantave said: “Honestly, that day, I was just doing my job, like every day, and not only me, but all of you guys.”
The driver who struck him has been charged with reckless driving causing serious bodily injury as well as driving under the influence resulting in serious injury and other offenses.
In addition to his service during emergencies, Cantave is known for community outreach through his work in the Midwest District’s Neighborhood Resource Unit. In May 2023 he helped a homeless woman by purchasing her a new car battery and assisting her in finding housing resources. “I just love helping people, that’s my nature,” Cantave said at the ceremony.
