Dan Kerr, Coconut Grove Police Commander 

We are well into the holiday season, which means that the annual pilgrimage of northern tourists is now flooding the streets of Miami. The winter months in Coconut Grove are filled with events and activities that draw locals and tourists alike. Unfortunately, this added activity draws the criminal element as well. Additional Miami Police Officers have been assigned to the Coconut Grove area to provide a visual police presence in the BID.

Thieves look for easy targets, unlocked cars, visible packages, or unattended phones make their day. Everyone knows how to lock purses and packages in the trunk but please, do so BEFORE you park in your final parking spot. Many times, professional thieves will surveil parking areas looking for victims. Items placed in the trunk signal value to them, and the trunk won’t stop them.

The best methods of Crime Prevention is awareness. Coconut Grove is a unique place with “unique” people. Those of us who work in the Grove know what or who is out of the ordinary. If you see something suspicious, trust your gut and call the police. I would rather receive 100 calls that turn out to be nothing than not receive the one call that was legitimate.

Contact Miami Police Commander Dan Kerr via email or by calling 305-929-3671.