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Strengthening Public Safety

While other major regions saw an increase in gun violence last year, Miami-Dade doubled down on successful programs that are preventing violence – and now we have one of the lowest rates of gun violence of any major metro area in the country. We did this by coming together, across the public and private sector, across cities and County departments, to make Miami-Dade the best place in the country to live, raise a family, and open a business.

We continue to invest in Operation Community Shield – taking over 2,500 guns off our streets. We've increased protection in the communities most affected by gun violence. We’ve invested in new police capabilities. These efforts show real results – a nearly 42% decline in shootings in unincorporated Miami-Dade during the 30 weeks following the program’s rollout.
Our groundbreaking Peace and Prosperity Plan, led by Commissioner Keon Hardemon, now in its third year, is a long-term investment in prevention, intervention and re-entry – creating opportunities particularly for at-risk young people. And we’re seeing results: Year 1 of the Plan was associated with fewer shootings in unincorporated Miami-Dade and gun-related homicides countywide.

Through our Peace and Prosperity flagship program, Fit2Lead, students can access paid summer and afterschool jobs. These students are also connected to case management services when they need them.

Safe in the 305 community grants – another Peace & Prosperity program – are designed by and for residents. In the last year, these grants were used to remove graffiti in Brownsville, revitalize a community garden in Goulds, hold cleanups in Little Havana and Little River, and promote mental wellness in Opa-locka, to name a few.

By continuing to reduce crime and bringing our community to the table, we’re building a stronger, safer Miami-Dade.
Image of Miami-Dade County Officers.
Image of Miami-Dade County Officers