Cocoa Police Department Forms Street Crimes Unit
By Space Coast Daily // March 22, 2013
City Steps Up Reduction Effort
BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA, FLORIDA – Cocoa City Manager John Titkanich has authorized Cocoa Police Chief Mark Klayman to form the Cocoa Police Department’s new Street Crimes Unit.
Officer Barbara Matthews of the Cocoa Police Department said that the Cocoa City Council unfroze three police officer positions in January.
Matthews said the move by the council provides the manpower needed to staff the new Street Crimes Unit.
“While the Street Crimes Units cannot undo the senseless acts of violence that have occurred in the past two weeks, Cocoa residents and businesses can expect an increased police presence to ensure the safety of all our residents, businesses and visitors,” Cocoa Mayor Henry Parrish said.
He said the city’s goal is to have the Street Crimes Unit operational and in full force by the middle of next week.
The unit will focus on current issues and crimes, including drug sales, prostitution, public intoxication, open containers, illegal alcohol sales, house parties, panhandlers, and loitering. It also will coordinate its efforts with other divisions within the city, including Code Enforcement, to combat crime.
The Street Crimes Unit will be proactive in its enforcement of the laws and ordinances aimed at improving the quality of lives for citizens and businesses.
“We care about the men, women and children who deserve to live their lives free from the fear of crime. We are responding to their needs” said Chief Klayman.
The city manager agrees.
“The city is committed to dedicating the appropriate resources to ensure the Cocoa Police Department has the tools necessary to adequately respond to and address those who have a propensity to commit crime,” Titkanich said. “Crime will not be tolerated in the City of Cocoa, and our Police Department is committed to ensuring a safe environment for all.”
The officers and supervisor of the Street Crimes Unit will be reassigned from existing positions and will work flexible schedules.
In the future, Chief Klayman will be forming a Citizen’s Advisory Committee.
This committee will be made up of volunteers who will help guide the Street Crimes Unit in addressing the needs of Cocoa citizens, businesses and visitors.
