Share with Sheriff Rosie: #2

Share with Sheriff Rosie: #2 With Northside Residents in Her Effort to Strengthen Community Ties and Address Urgent Concerns.

In an effort to strengthen community ties and address urgent concerns, Miami-Dade County Sheriff, accompanied by her command team, met with Northside residents in an event focused on transparency, security, and collaboration. The meeting, held in an open and inclusive environment, emphasized the importance of accessibility and working together to resolve issues affecting local neighborhoods.

Commitment to Accessibility and Introduction of the Command Team

The Sheriff opened the meeting by emphasizing her commitment to reaching out to the community rather than waiting for residents to come to her office:
“Tonight is special because it reflects my commitment to being accessible. We want to come to you, listen to your needs, and work together.”

She then introduced her executive team, highlighting their experience and dedication:

• Sean Brown, Assistant Sheriff with 34 years of service, 28 of them in Northside.
• Tiffany S. Wesley, Chief of the North Operations Division, with 22 years in the agency.
• Farrel J. Owens, Major of the Northside District, who emphasized Northside’s legacy of leadership:
  “This district shapes leaders. It’s an honor to serve here.”
• Chris Carruthers, Undersheriff, who assured:
  “My role is to ensure that everyone in this team fulfills their duty to serve you.”

Each member shared their career paths, many with decades of service in Northside, reinforcing their deep connection to the community.

Residents’ Concerns and Concrete Responses

Support for Community Events and Neighborhood Watch

Sharon Fraser-Steven, captain of the Liberty Square crime watch, requested resources for her volunteer group.

• Vivian Hafner, Director of Citizens Crime Watch, offered free assistance, including RAD self-defense classes and children’s programs.
• Joe Bermúdez, retired sergeant and program director, stated:
  “We have tools for the community. You just need to reach out to us for help.”

Illegal Dumping and Prostitution

Continuous cases of illegal dumping were reported in multiple residential areas, affecting the health and well-being of residents. The Sheriff promised increased patrols and coordination with the specialized illegal dumping unit.

• Major Owens explained:
  “We have a dedicated team mapping and tackling these crimes, but we need your help in identifying offenders.”

Urban Animals

Two residents voiced concerns about stray chickens roaming the neighborhood.

• The Sheriff, sharing a humorous anecdote about once being called for a crocodile in someone’s yard, suggested that perhaps that problem could be solved the same way.
• Beyond the humor, she promised to connect residents with the county’s agricultural unit to properly handle the situation.

Fraud in Homeowners’ Associations (HOA)

Following complaints of HOA fraud, the Sheriff announced a new tool on her website (mdso.com) for reporting cases, directly linking residents with specialized investigators and forensic accountants.

Mental Health and Youth Programs

Residents called for mental health centers to be reopened and for an expansion of programs like PAL (Police Athletic League). The Sheriff pledged to seek external funding for recreational and educational initiatives.

Key Resident Concerns

🛑 Rising Prostitution and Street Crime: Residents demanded a greater police presence, particularly on 79th Street, where prostitution is reportedly out of control.

🛑 Drug Trafficking and Illegal Housing: Concerns were raised about the increase of drug-related activities and unregulated rental properties being used for illicit purposes.

🛑 Lack of Police Patrols: Many residents called for more frequent patrols, especially in areas with elderly residents who feel increasingly vulnerable.

🛑 Excessive Noise and Late-Night Parties: The community urged stricter enforcement of noise ordinances to improve quality of life.

🛑 Reckless Driving and Speeding: Calls were made for increased traffic enforcement, as speeding vehicles endanger pedestrians and families.

Collaboration with Local Leaders & Recognition

Representative Bush and community association leaders, such as Kenneth Kilpatrick from Brownsville, highlighted the importance of programs like PAL and thanked law enforcement for their presence at community events.

• Bush affirmed: “We are part of your team. Together, we can accomplish more.”

Closing Message: Stay Engaged and Speak Up

The Sheriff concluded the event by encouraging residents to continue the dialogue and report concerns:
“Our mission is to serve you with integrity. If you see something, tell us. Stay persistent, because together we will transform this community.”

📢 Her team remained after the event for one-on-one conversations, reinforcing their commitment to working “side by side” with Northside.

NORTHSIDE ALERT: RESIDENTS EXPRESS CONCERNS TO THE SHERIFF

🚨 NORTHSIDE COMMUNITY SEEKS SOLUTIONS FROM AUTHORITIES 🚨

The Sheriff reaffirmed her commitment to the community, emphasizing transparency, professionalism, and mutual respect in police-community relations.

🛡️ SHERIFF’S RESPONSE & PROPOSED ACTIONS

🔹 Specialized Prostitution Task Force: Assigning specialized officers to tackle prostitution and its impact on neighborhood safety.

🔹 Increased Surveillance at Illegal Dumping Sites: Implementing monitoring strategies and working with residents to identify offenders.

🔹 More Frequent Patrolling: Strengthening police presence in key areas and establishing checkpoints to monitor suspicious activity.

🔹 Support for Community Initiatives: Providing resources to programs like Citizens Crime Watch and other crime prevention efforts.

🔹 Direct Communication Channels with the Community: New hotlines and regular meetings with community leaders for quick response and updates.

This Meeting Proved That Change Is Possible

This gathering not only highlighted the challenges Northside faces but also showcased the power of collaboration between authorities and citizens.

💙 With concrete solutions and a committed team, the Miami-Dade Sheriff is turning concerns into actions—always under the promise:
“To protect and serve is not just a slogan; it’s a commitment.”

📣 HOW CAN YOU HELP?

📢 Share this information on social media to alert more residents.
💪 Get involved in community meetings and neighborhood watch programs.
👤 Report any suspicious activity to law enforcement and demand action.

📲 SECURITY IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY!

A joint effort between authorities and the community is essential to improving Northside’s safety. Community participation and government transparency are the keys to real change.