Recently released footage by journalist Maylin Legañoa from Telemundo 51 provides an unprecedented look into the police operation in Palmetto Estates that led to the death of 21-year-old Cuban, Christopher Barata, and the arrest of his brother, Cristian, on charges of possessing and distributing child pornography.
The video, captured by a Ring camera installed at the entrance of the residence, depicts the moment when several officers from the Miami-Dade Sheriff's SWAT team arrive in tactical formation. They move stealthily, holding rifles up and carrying ballistic shields, until one officer approaches the doorbell camera and covers it with tape, blocking any further visual documentation of the operation.
While the short clip does not show gunfire or arrests, it highlights the intensity of the police presence just moments before the shooting that resulted in Christopher's death. According to official reports, he allegedly came out armed and failed to comply with the officers' commands, a claim that his family disputes.
The young men's mother, Judimí Rodríguez, has repeatedly told various media outlets that her son was "caught sleeping," was unarmed, and was fatally shot in the living room without the family understanding what was happening.
Another relative mentioned receiving a frantic call to pick up the young child living in the home. "No one explained anything to us," they noted.
While the newly released footage does not clarify events inside the house, it fuels the family's doubts about the operation's necessity, with some even questioning whether the police targeted the wrong home. This theory has been strongly denied by Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz.
As the Florida Department of Law Enforcement continues its investigation into the shooting, the Barata family's grief is compounded by the complex legal proceedings against Cristian, who faces 25 charges related to child abuse materials and remains in custody on bond.
Key Questions Regarding the Miami Police Operation
What does the newly released footage show about the police operation?
The footage shows SWAT officers arriving in tactical formation and covering the camera, highlighting the intensity of the operation but not showing any gunfire or arrests.
What is the family's stance on the official version of the events?
The family disputes the official account, claiming Christopher was unarmed and asleep when shot, and questions the necessity and target of the operation.
What charges is Cristian Barata facing?
Cristian Barata is facing 25 charges related to child abuse materials and remains in custody on bond.