Miami Beach Police Department, Florida
End of Watch Thursday, June 30, 1988
Add to My HeroesScott Richard Rakow
Police Officer Scott Rakow was shot and killed during a pursuit of a suspect following a major undercover drug sting in which an undercover detective was going to sell $100,000 worth of cocaine. During the sting, the drug dealers had spotters in high rise buildings who observed the police sting and alerted the suspects, who then attempted to rob the undercover detective.
One of the men fled in the undercover vehicle while the other fled in the vehicle they arrived in. As other officers pursued the undercover vehicle Officer Rakow began to pursue the other vehicle until it crashed at the intersection of NE 83rd Street and Bayshore Drive, in Miami. As the suspect fled on foot he opened fire on Officer Rakow, striking him in the head.
The man was arrested a short time later after jumping into a nearby canal.
The suspect and an accomplice were convicted of first-degree murder, armed robbery, weapons violations, and drug trafficking. They were sentenced to life in prison.
Officer Rakow had served with the Miami Beach Police Department for four years. He is survived by his wife, daughter, parents, and siblings.
Bio
- Age 29
- Tour 4 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; 9 mm
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 58 ReflectionsPalmer Maree I think it's spelled this way and Pierson Scott are your two grandchildren, Detective Rakow. Olav hashalom and rest in peace. The little girl is older. Have not spoken with Erica or her mother your widow Toni who remarried since Mrs. Kate Klein's funeral that I officiated at Lakeside Memorial Park in the Degania section where you and your loving parents are buried. I do text Mrs. Anita Bernstein your mother-in-law exchanging holiday greetings.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
March 24, 2022
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