By-Line: Joseph Bober, Public Information Office, FCSO
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement partners will be conducting increased patrols along roadways, waterways, parks, and high-traffic areas throughout the county to ensure that residents and visitors have a safe Memorial Day Weekend.
In preparation for an increase in traffic throughout Flagler County, the FCSO Traffic Enforcement Unit will partner with the Florida Highway Patrol, the Flagler Beach Police Department, and the Bunnell Police Department to conduct traffic details targeting aggressive driving, speeding, and seatbelt violations along the county’s busiest roadways. Additional patrol deputies will also focus on DUI enforcement and aggressive driving throughout the weekend.
In addition, the FCSO is participating in the Florida Department of Transportation’s “Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign, which began on May 12 and runs through May 26. The goal of this campaign is to increase seatbelt usage and decrease serious injuries and fatalities, creating safer roadways in Florida for all motorists.
On the Intracoastal Waterway, the FCSO Marine Unit will partner with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to monitor the waters for unsafe boating, including reckless operation, speeding, or boating under the influence.
“This Memorial Day, we express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who lost their lives fighting for our freedom. As you celebrate the day off work, please be responsible and remember the purpose of this holiday weekend,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “If you plan to drink, you better not get behind any wheel. Whether you’re hitting the road or the water, you should plan to have a sober driver or captain. Otherwise, you’ll be spending time seeing new bars at the Green Roof Inn.”
The FCSO is also preparing for an increase in activity at the beaches and with it a potential for increased criminal activity. To stop potential criminals from preying on Flagler County residents or visitors, the FCSO Beach Patrol Unit, Bike Unit, Citizen Observer Patrol Bike Unit, and patrol units will have increased visibility and patrols in high-traffic areas including beaches, beach approaches, and parking lots.
Along with the increased presence, Sheriff Staly encourages everyone to do their part to keep from becoming easy targets for criminals. “There are many simple things you can do to keep yourself and your stuff safe when you’re out enjoying the weather,” Sheriff Staly added. “Before you head to the beach, remember to lock your car doors and hide any valuables. When you’re on the beach, be aware of your surroundings, be alert, and don’t leave your things unattended.”
The FCSO Operations Center in Bunnell, District 2 Office in Palm Coast, and visitation at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility will be closed on Monday, May 26. The FCSO Communications Center remains open 365 days a year, and residents should call 911 for emergencies or 386-313-4911 for non-emergencies.
