After demonstrations on Miami's streets erupted into violence following George Floyd's death, the city is preparing for whatever may come after the verdict of former officer Derek Chauvin is read.
Chief Art Acevedo says all hands are on deck. "Metro Dade PD is up and running. All of our partners are up and running. We're talking to each other. We're on a tactical alert. Everyone's in uniform unless they have an operation need not to be. We canceled the any additional days off or vacation days."
Acevedo stresses there are no specific threats, but they're prepared for anything and are hoping for the best.
The Broward Sheriff's Office is monitoring the situation and will address issues as they come.
In Fort Lauderdale, where demonstrations got heated after Floyd's death, the police department has issued this statement: "The Fort Lauderdale Police Department continues to monitor the on-going trial and upcoming verdict alongside our law enforcement partners throughout the nation. The safety and wellbeing of our community and its visitors is of paramount importance and we continue to be informed and aware of the events as they unfold. "
Acevedo says there will be no changes in the way officers handle themselves now that the Governor has signed the so-called anti-riot bill into law.
Fort Lauderdale police say this about the new legislation: “Our Legal Advisor, alongside his team of personnel, monitor all updates / changes / additions to Florida State Statutes. Upon receiving any new information, they review the information and author notices (Legal Bulletins) which are disseminated to all of our personnel. Relevant changes are also made to all associated policies, procedures and SOPS. Additionally, our Training Unit Staff updates lesson plans and course information in order to remain current with those updates / changes / additions.”
(Photo: ADAM DELGIUDICE/AFP via Getty Images)