After images were released of model Gisele Bündchen being stopped on the road by a police officer, the mayor of surfside expressed his “dismay” at the way the situation unfolded. According to a letter to which the media had access Local 10 Miamithe local authority called attention to what it considered a less than empathetic response to the state of the celebrity.
The arrest, which occurred last Wednesday, was documented by the officer’s body camera and cell phone videos from bystanders, showing Bündchen clearly affected. The supermodel, who was driving a gray Mercedes G Wagon, was stopped by a unspecified traffic violation and received a warning notice instead of a citation.
During the exchange, a visibly distressed Bündchen explained to the officer that she was being chased by a paparazziwhich led her to express fear and frustration.
“I have these fucking men following me, nothing protects me,” she said through tears. The policeman replied: “I understand who you are. File a report in Miami Beach, because he is coming from Miami Beach.” He also said that he could not prevent her from being photographed.
Bundchën, known not only for her career on the catwalks but also for her recent relationship with coach Joaquim Valente and for being the ex-wife of the iconic NFL player, Tom Brady, resides in Indian Creek Village. This place is known for hosting several celebrities and high-profile people.
Mayor Burkett’s reaction after the video was released did not take long to become public. In a letter to interim police chief Henry Twelve, Burkett called “totally unacceptable” the officer’s response to the clear anguish of the Brazilian figure.
“This reaction does not reflect the values, judgment and service that residents expect from their police,” Burkett stated in the letter, underscoring the importance of the institution interacting and serving residents with the respect and empathy they deserve.
“On the contrary, the primary job of our police department is to keep our residents safe,” he insisted.
Likewise, the mayor’s letter also highlighted his concern about what he considers a troubling pattern in some members of the police force, alluding to a previous incident in which the head of the police union, Tammy Campbell, and several officers confronted elected officials for requests to increase patrols and improve visibility and rest for officers.
“I have always supported our police and all men and women who choose to serve honorably,” Burkett argued.
For his part, Interim Chief Henry Doce, speaking to Local 10 News, acknowledged the possibility that the situation could have been handled in a more understanding manner.
“I would have liked to see more empathy in the initial contact with what was happening,” he said in conversation with a radio outlet. Likewise, Twelve highlighted that the agent is known for being efficient in his work, but that they consider this incident to be a learning opportunity.
To date, it has not been confirmed whether Bundchen has followed the officer’s recommendation to file a report with Miami Beach Police about paparazzi harassment.
