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The Miami Gardens Police Department prides itself on putting the community first. “Our partnership is with the residents and business owners of Miami Gardens,” said Captain Joseph Nargiso, Administrative Captain of the Operations Division.
The Department is dedicated to keeping people at the center of its programming. You can see this commitment in initiatives like the volunteer police chaplain program, providing counseling to families in need, and the college internships in partnership with Florida Memorial and St. Thomas Universities.
Most recently, the Department saw success in connecting with Miami Gardens children on one of the newest projects, Golf Instead of Guns. “The program uses the game of golf to teach social and emotional learning, critical thinking and resilience building exercises in elementary schools,” Nargiso said. “Not only are we satisfying standards, but we are supporting the well-being of vulnerable youth.”
These community practices have proven helpful when paired with traditional crime-fighting techniques, and “as a result, our year-to-date crime statistics have decreased city-wide,” Nargiso said. “The programs we have allow us to really connect with the community and allow our residents to feel safer.”
Programs like these help set the Miami Gardens Police Department apart from others. In the wake of recent tragic incidents across the country, there have been wide-sweeping protests advocating for police reform. City officials, Police Chief Delma Noel-Pratt and other leaders have publicly spoken against aggressive policing, and encourage officers to exemplify their “courageous commitment and dedication.”
When it comes to personal safety in Miami Gardens, the Department encourages residents to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Property owners should make sure their properties are well lit and tidy to keep potential burglars away, and the general public should follow safety guidelines surrounding COVID-19. To contact the police department, residents are advised to call 911 for emergencies, or (305) 474-6473 for non-emergencies.
