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Daytona Beach officials plan restored boardwalk police unit after residents report aggressive panhandling
Summary
Residents described aggressive panhandling and public-safety incidents on the beachside; police chief said a boardwalk unit will be restored and 17 new recruits arriving in April will allow a consistent presence aimed at deterrence. Commissioners noted legal limits on panhandling enforcement.
Daytona Beach leaders on Monday heard repeated pleas from residents to address aggressive panhandling and daytime sleeping on the city’s beachside and agreed to bolster visible patrols while navigating legal limits on enforcement.
Resident Sonia Sailor told the commission the problem is concentrated on the beachside, saying, “They’re actually sleeping outside,” and describing threats, discarded needles and aggressive behavior that she said deter families and customers from local businesses. Other speakers recounted personal assaults and urged more bicycle and walking patrols.
Chief Jakari Young told the commission the department will restore a dedicated boardwalk unit in addition to the bicycle unit and redeploy coverage that will also touch Main Street, Breakers Park and Sunsplash Park. “We’re going to be bringing back the boardwalk unit,” Young said, adding that a class of 17 new recruits will be out on their own starting in April and will free resources for a more consistent presence. Young said that visible presence is meant to deter crime.
City counsel informed the commission the city is under a federal court injunction that limits enforcement of some panhandling regulations; the city has appealed. Counsel and staff said the injunction does not prevent enforcement of general criminal acts such as assault, drug offenses or trespass. The record notes counsel told the commission, “We’ve been enjoined by the federal court from enforcing our panhandling regulations. We have that on appeal.”
Commissioners and members of the public emphasized that enforcement alone is insufficient. Commissioner comments and several public speakers urged more shelter capacity and civil strategies to reduce repeat street homelessness; one commissioner noted the city’s First Step Shelter remains full and called for exploring additional funding.
Mayor Derek L. Henry asked Chief Young to present the department’s strategic plan and a year-in-review at the next meeting so the public can see priorities and results. The chief agreed to return with that briefing.
What’s next: The commission asked staff to review comparable codes (Ormond Beach, Winter Park were cited by residents) and requested the police chief present a strategic plan at the next meeting outlining targeted enforcement, community outreach and metrics for the boardwalk unit’s performance.
