Opa-locka, Florida — A Miami Gardens police officer has been relieved of duty and is facing multiple felony charges after investigators alleged he threatened a woman with a handgun during a domestic dispute and later violated a court-issued protective order by contacting her.
The case has drawn attention after prosecutors accused the officer of attempting to persuade the woman to withdraw her allegations despite a temporary injunction prohibiting contact.
Officer Surrendered After Alleged Court Order Violation
According to authorities, Officer Kolei McKinney surrendered to Opa-locka police on Thursday after investigators determined he had allegedly violated a temporary stay-away injunction issued in connection with a domestic violence investigation.
The Miami Gardens Police Department confirmed that McKinney was relieved of duty last week while the criminal case proceeds.
During his first court appearance, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mindy Glazer outlined several felony charges filed against him.
Those charges include aggravated assault with a deadly firearm, use of a firearm during the commission of a felony, tampering with a victim, and improper exhibition of a weapon.
Investigators Say Domestic Dispute Escalated
According to the arrest report, the allegations stem from an incident that occurred on July 17 involving a woman McKinney had reportedly been dating.
The woman told investigators that she noticed McKinney driving erratically alongside her vehicle before both vehicles stopped.
She alleged that McKinney then entered her vehicle, where an argument escalated. According to investigators, when she questioned his behavior, McKinney allegedly responded:
“I can’t f—ing take this no more; I’m just going to end this.”
The woman told police that McKinney then removed a handgun from his waistband, pointed it toward the windshield, and continued making threatening statements while inside the vehicle.
Authorities have not indicated that the firearm was discharged during the incident.
Protective Order Issued Days Later
The woman reported the alleged incident to law enforcement four days later, after which a temporary stay-away order was issued against McKinney.
Prosecutors told the court that despite the order, McKinney telephoned the woman on July 22, violating the court’s no-contact requirement.
According to the arrest report, investigators believe McKinney asked the woman to recant her abuse allegations during that conversation.
Judge Glazer stated during the hearing that the alleged phone call constituted a violation of the injunction.
Released on Bond While Case Continues
Following the hearing, McKinney was granted a $6,000 bond and was released from custody Friday night.
The Miami Gardens Police Department said the officer was ordered to surrender his department-issued badge and service weapon after being relieved of duty.
Officials have not announced whether additional administrative action will follow while the criminal case remains pending.
The allegations against McKinney have not been proven in court, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Prosecutors are expected to continue presenting evidence as the case moves through the judicial process.
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