Joint Operations Help Address Large Crowds and Curb Violence
December 18, 2020
Over the past several months, the Tallahassee Police Department has been working diligently to address the issues of large crowds and parking lot parties. The large gatherings are a health concern due to the ongoing pandemic, a disturbance to citizens and a public safety risk, as many have ended in violence. In a six-week time frame, police responded to two dozen shootings that resulted in death, serious injury or property damage connected to these gatherings.
To increase visibility and reduce these instances, TPD partnered with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol and Florida State University Police Department for a proactive joint patrol operation.
The joint operation started in early October and has continued for the past two months. Based on an analysis of crime trends and crime intelligence related to the large gatherings, law enforcement saturated key areas, including Tennessee Street, Pensacola Street, Lake Bradford Road, South Adams Street and FAMU Way. Additionally, Inspectors with the Tallahassee Fire Department were paired with officers to assist with checking occupancy levels and other safety violations at local nightclubs and bar establishments.
The joint operation yielded 1,064 traffic stops, which resulted in 933 warnings and 132 traffic citations. Several arrests were made resulting in 50 felony charges and 61 misdemeanor charges. Additionally, a total of 13 illegal firearms and several different types of illegal narcotics were recovered.
This operation reflects the positive results collaborative efforts can yield for the community. Due to high visibility and proactivity, these law enforcement efforts deterred violent crime locally. Law enforcement continues to encourage citizens and business owners to do their part to help address parking lot parties in the city. Report issues by calling TPD at 850-891-4200 or the Consolidated Dispatch Agency at 850-606-5800. If you need to report an emergency, always call 911.
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