Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum Preserves Miami’s Legacy of Justice and Progress

The historic entrance to The Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum in Miami’s Overtown stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, honoring the legacy of the city’s first Black officers

Museum Entrance

The exterior of the North District Substation of the City of Miami Department of Police. The building’s bold signage and the parked Miami Police vehicle reflect its active role in the community.

The Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood stands as a powerful reminder of the city’s history of segregation and the resilience of its Black community. Built in 1950, the precinct served as a segregated base of operations for Miami’s first Black police officers and judges. Today, the museum preserves this legacy, educating visitors about the struggles and triumphs of those who broke barriers in law enforcement and the judiciary, according to the museum’s official website.

City of Miami Museum Marker

This sign marks the location of the historic Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum, a site dedicated to preserving the legacy of Miami’s first Black police officers and judges.

A Segregated Beginning

The precinct was established during the Jim Crow era, a time when segregation and discrimination were deeply ingrained in Miami’s police department and city government. Black officers, referred to as “Colored Patrol Officers,” were restricted to enforcing the law in designated zones, including Overtown, Liberty City, and Coconut Grove. The precinct, built for $60,000, provided a space for these officers to handle citizen complaints, process arrests, and conduct roll calls. The second floor housed a courtroom where Attorney Lawson E. Thomas, Miami’s first Black judge, presided over cases involving Black defendants, as reported by Teen Vogue.

Judge Lawson E. Thomas

Officers Clyde Lee & Officer R.V. White at the ribbon-cutting ceremony of May 22, 1950 pictured here with Judge Thomas.

First Black Judge Lawson E. Thomas sworn in handling over 6,000 cases per year.

Presiding Judges in the city of Miami from 1950-1962

Honoring Judicial Integrity

This display commemorates Judge Thomas E. Lawson and his fellow judges, who served Miami from 1950 to 1962. Through their dedication to justice, they upheld the principle of "Equal Protection Under the Law," shaping Miami's legal framework during a crucial period in its history. Their legacy stands as a beacon of integrity and truth in the pursuit of justice.

Judge’s Courtroom Display

This courtroom exhibit honors the legacy of Judge Lawson E. Thomas and other judicial pioneers. The bust, flags, and framed photographs create a formal tribute to their contributions to Miami’s legal history.

Miami’s First Black Officers

This historic photograph captures Miami’s first Black police officers being sworn in in 1944, from left to right: Ralph White, Moody Hall, Clyde Lee, Edward Kimball, and John Milledge. Their service marked a significant milestone in the fight for racial equality in law enforcement.

Impact on the Community

The precinct quickly became a symbol of hope and pride for Miami’s Black community. In its first year, the court handled 6,374 cases and collected over $60,000 in fines and forfeitures, according to the museum’s educational resources. The presence of Black officers and Judge Thomas brought a sense of justice and accountability, reducing crime and improving the quality of life in Black neighborhoods. However, the officers faced significant challenges, including discrimination, exclusion from civil service benefits, and limited authority, as noted by Miami and Beaches.

Commemorating Patrolman John Milledge

This statue honors John Milledge, one of the first black patrolmen in the Miami Police Department. Sworn in on September 1, 1944, his groundbreaking service was tragically cut short on November 1, 1946, when he was murdered by Leroy Strachan while performing his duties. Strachan evaded justice for 43 years, highlighting the systemic inequities Milledge faced even in death. This memorial stands as a testament to his bravery and a stark reminder of the delayed justice for his sacrifice.

Remembering Patrolman Leroy Joseph LaFleur, Sr.

Leroy Joseph LaFleur, Sr. broke barriers as the first Haitian police officer in the City of Miami in 1949. A World War II veteran, he dedicated himself to serving and protecting his community. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1951 when he was killed in the line of duty while checking on the welfare of a man. His memory endures as a symbol of courage and service.

Dr. Robert B. Ingram

Dr. Robert B. Ingram, the first Black police officer assigned to the prestigious City of Miami Police Motorcycle Squad, played a pivotal role in preserving the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum from demolition. His efforts ensured the legacy of Miami’s Black law enforcement would endure for future generations.

Police Chief Clarence Dickson

Police Chief Clarence Dickson, the first Black police officer to attend the Miami Police Academy and the first African American Police Chief of a major city in America, was instrumental in saving the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum. His leadership and dedication to preserving history have left an indelible mark on Miami’s law enforcement community.

Closure and Preservation

In 1962, a management survey by the International Association of Chiefs of Police recommended the precinct’s closure due to high operational costs. By 1963, the precinct was abolished, and its 79 Black officers were integrated into Miami’s main police headquarters, as reported by Teen Vogue. The building was nearly demolished but was saved through the efforts of retired Black police officers, including Dr. Robert Ingram and Chief Clarence Dickson, Miami’s first Black police chief, according to Going Overtown.

Honoring Officer Nathaniel K. Broom

This statue commemorates Officer Nathaniel K. Broom, who served with distinction in the Miami Police Department. Tragically, on September 2, 1981, he was killed in the line of duty while investigating a suspicious individual. Justice prevailed as his murderer was apprehended, convicted, and ultimately sentenced to death. Officer Broom’s courage and sacrifice remain a profound legacy within the policing community.

Holding Cells at the Precinct

These images showcase the stark and utilitarian design of the holding cells, featuring metal bed frames, basic facilities, and secured entrances that reflect the controlled environment of confinement.

The Museum Today

Today, the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum serves as a cultural institution, preserving the legacy of Miami’s first Black officers and judges. Visitors can explore original holding cells, courtrooms, and artifacts that depict the realities of policing in segregated Miami.

Fostering Unity at the 20th NOBLE Conference

This commemorative group photo captures the attendees of the 20th National Training Conference held by NOBLE in 1997. Bringing together black law enforcement executives from across the nation, the event served as a pivotal platform for collaboration, professional development, and the advancement of leadership within the field of law enforcement.

Tribute to a Dedicated Officer

This commemorative display pairs a striking black-and-white portrait with a meticulously preserved uniform, honoring the life and service of a dedicated Florida police officer. The inclusion of the Florida flag subtly underscores the officer’s profound connection to the state, making this homage both personal and deeply resonant.

Honoring Sergeant Willie R. Jones Jr.

In these moments, Sergeant Willie R. Jones Jr. captivates visitors with his soul-stirring tours, bringing the history of Miami’s Black Police Precinct to life. As he shares powerful stories of resilience and the trailblazing contributions of Black law enforcement officers, his passion fills the room, ensuring the legacy of the precinct continues to inspire everyone who walks through its doors.

Sergeant Willie R. Jackson, Jr., retired from the City of Miami Police Department, serves as a curator and tour guide at the museum. As Vice President of the National Black Police Association Miami Chapter, Jackson ensures that the stories of Miami’s first Black officers and judges inspire future generations. Reflecting on his career, Jackson shared, “The transition was smooth. I was doing detective work most of my life at that point and was looking for another way to serve my community and share in the great legacy of fellow officers who came before me.” Jackson served with the Miami Police Department from February 2, 1981, to October 21, 2009, completing 28 years of active service.

The Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum stands as a powerful reminder of the progress made and the work that remains in the fight for justice and equality. By preserving the stories of those who paved the way, the museum ensures that their legacy continues to inspire and educate. Take a tour and be inspired by the stories that continue to shape the fight for justice today.

A Legacy of Justice and Resilience

This plaque honors the groundbreaking contributions of Miami’s first Black police officers and judges, who served in the nation’s only segregated precinct and courthouse. Their courage and dedication laid the foundation for community policing and equal justice in the face of systemic segregation.