Stunning SOBE Fountains Honor Beloved Cop

MIAMI BEACH — Each night as the South Beach sun dips past the horizon, South Pointe Park now springs to life with a stunning purple and pink light display on what is sure to become a great new meet-up spot. Miami Beach officials dedicated the series of illuminated water treatments last week in honor of beloved Miami area cop Mark N. Overton who left his mark on three police departments. Friends and family of the late officer said he would have loved the gesture to remember his decades of service in Miami Beach, Hialeah and Bal Harbour.

"Mark was a wonderful example of what a policeman has to do every day," observed Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber. "We know you put yourself out so that we don't have to. We know you put yourselves in harms way so that we don't have to ... We are grateful for what you do and we will always be grateful. The fact that we can dedicate a park to one of your own, one of your leaders, it's really special for all of us."

The plaque reads: "In Memory of Miami Beach Police Department Veteran Mark N. Overton."

Overton, a city native, joined the Miami Beach Police Department in March 2012 after 28 years of service with the Hialeah Police Department.

He went on to become chief of the nearby Bal Harbour Police Department.

“He was beloved within the fraternity of law enforcement within this community and of law enforcement leadership," added Miami Beach Police Chief Daniel Oates. “We are thrilled to see this wonderful fountain and park area dedicated to his honor."

The ceremony included a presentation of colors by the Miami Beach Police Department Honor Guard. The dedication was attended by police chiefs from Miami Shores, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, Pinecrest and Indian Creek in addition to Miami Beach.

Overton's wife Esther also spoke at the ceremony.

Throughout his 32-year law enforcement career, Overton received several career honors and awards, including Officer of the Year, the Purple Heart, Combat Cross, Distinguished Service, Outstanding Supervisor, and Administrative Excellence.

The village of Bal Harbour appointed Overton Police Chief in January 2014. He passed away on Nov. 3, 2016. Miami Beach proclaimed Dec. 14, 2016 as Chief Mark N. Overton Day.

Gelber invited attendees to return often.

"Please come here a lot and when you come here enjoy it and remember the person it's dedicated to and remember the principles he stood for," the mayor explained. "Remember that we are a community. Something he loved was community, so this is something that also brings out what he loved a lot."

Watch below as Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber dedicates the stunning new fountains:

Photo and video by Paul Scicchitano