Local Law Enforcement Take On Possibility Of Riots
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Amid the aftermath of the Baltimore riots, local law enforcement is taking on the task of the possibility of riots happening in South Florida.
The credible threat to law enforcement was sent out to all agencies saying gangs are working together to take out law officers.
CBS4's Cynthia Demos asked outgoing Hollywood Police Chief Frank Fernandez his reaction to the possible threat.
"This is not just a threat for law enforcement officers today, unfortunately," said Fernandez.
He said if they believe the threat goes beyond their jurisdiction, they have to share it.
Click here to watch Cynthia Demos' report.
Demos asked, "So should we worry the Crips and Bloods and other gangs will strike in South Florida?"
"I am not. I think we've done a great job in South Florida addressing most if not all of these issues," said Fernandez.
And we've had our issues in the past.
"I hope we never go back to the dark days of the 80s and some in the 90s," said Fernandez.
He was referring to riots like the 1980 McDuffie riots that happened after four white officers were acquitted after killing a black man, Arthur McDuffie.
In 1989, there were three days of rioting in Miami after Officer William Lozano shot and killed a black motorcyclist.
"A lot of it has to do with the typical accusation of the abuse of power," said Fernandez.
But could riots happen here?
"Anything can happen anywhere. But I don't believe it's going to happen in South Florida. All the agencies have come together to realize we have to have community policing at all times," said Fernandez.
If it did happen, will things be handled differently than in Baltimore?
They are following standard operating procedure for civil disorder," said Fernandez.
In Baltimore, the 10 p.m. curfew started Tuesday night but wasn't really enforced until 11 p.m.
Demos asked if there was a curfew in South Florida, would they stick to the 10 p.m. time.
"No, ten never means 10," said Fernandez. "If they are peaceful and they are demonstrating, do you want to interrupt it..through dialogue and communication you're better off than imposing"
Demos also spoke with Miami-Dade County law enforcement officials who agree, when it comes to possible riots, South Florida is in good shape and we should feel safe.
Click here for the latest on the Baltimore riots aftermath.
