A Cuban who arrived in the U.S. as a teenager explains why he decided to become a Florida patrol officer

A Cuban who arrived in the United States as a teenager found in law enforcement a way to give back for the opportunities his family received. His name is Denys Páez Hernández, and he is an agent with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), an institution that highlighted his journey and commitment to road safety.

The story was shared on the Facebook page of the Florida Highway Patrol Academy as part of its Trooper Tuesday initiative, dedicated to showcasing the officers within that law enforcement agency.

Born in Cuba, Páez Hernández emigrated to the United States during his adolescence and obtained U.S. citizenship in 2013.

"I wanted to become a law enforcement officer to give back to the community and the country that opened its doors to me and my family," he stated while explaining the reasons that led him to choose that profession.

When the institution published its history in August of this year, the Cuban had accumulated nine years and two months of service and was stationed in Seminole County, in central Florida.

It was part of the Selective Control Squadron (SES), a specialized unit focused on preventing accidents through traffic monitoring, the enforcement of traffic regulations, and driver education.

His work includes combating speeding, aggressive driving, and other behaviors that endanger the lives of those on the roads.

"Sometimes it's not about imposing a fine."

For Páez Hernández, being a patrol officer involves much more than stopping vehicles or imposing penalties.

"Every day is different, and you never know which family you might influence. By simply stopping a vehicle, we may have saved a life. That is my hope," he explained.

The agent emphasized that a conversation can be more beneficial than a fine, especially when it comes to young drivers.

"Sometimes it’s not about imposing a fine. It’s more about communicating with a teenage motorcyclist and helping them understand the importance of not exceeding the speed limit for their own safety, so they can return home to their family," he reflected.

The Cuban also expressed pride in wearing the uniform of the Florida Highway Patrol, whose traditional colors black and beige are known as Black and Tan.