JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — Jacksonville Beach Police Department leaders announced they are already gearing up for the spring months. The department said it plans to especially crack down on gang activity, guns, and violent crimes starting March 1, 2025.
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The strategy is called “setting the tone for summer.”
Action News Jax Shanila Kabir spoke to several Jax Beach residents who believe this is a great initiative because it is no secret that Jacksonville Beach is the go-to spot in northeast Florida during spring break and summer.
With the way Jacksonville Beach has seen growth in the number of visitors, people expect more of a heavy turnout when it starts getting warm.
Come March, officers said we will see a surge of law enforcement throughout the city. For six weeks, the department’s main efforts will go toward fighting illegal gun and drug-related crimes, as well as stopping illegal gang activity.
Jax Beach resident William Gilroy said he agrees with these types of police methods, especially after three unrelated shootings there, including a fatal one on St. Patrick’s Day back in March.
“We’ve seen several shootings at Jacksonville Beach and in the summer prior. We can do without that. We need this for our safety because we will have more tourists walking through,” said Gilroy.
Police said lower-end crimes such as trespassing, panhandling, and sleeping in public spaces will be less of a priority.
Another long-time Jax Beach resident, Jennifer Crews said the neighborhood is pleased with how the beaches look when it comes to enforcing these non-violent crimes. She adds if she sees one or two homeless individuals sleeping on a bench, but violent crimes and shootings are being prevented, that means the police department is stepping up.
“If they have the manpower to do that, I’m behind them 100%. They know better what the needs are and what the crime rates are,” said Crews.
Jacksonville Beach Chief of Police Gene Smith told Action News Jax saying in part:
“With our additional personnel, equipment, and full staffing expected by January of 2025, we will be in a great position to set the tone for proper behavior for the rest of the spring and summer. We want visitors to enjoy all the wonderful activities in our beautiful city, but if you come and break the law, we will do our best to find you and put you in the Duval County Jail.”
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