Pine Hills crime operation nets 187 arrests, Sheriff Demings says

Most residents happy to see increased police presence

ORLANDO, Fla. – After more than a month of law enforcement officers efforts focusing on crime in the Pine Hills area, Sheriff Jerry Demings said his deputies are seeing results.

Demings told Orange County commissioners Tuesday that there is more work to be done while providing an update on an initiative to combat crime.

Operation RISE (Rising Inclusiveness, Safety and Empowerment) launched in December after a week marred by several deadly shootings.

During the update, Demings outlined the four-pronged approach to reducing crime: prevention, intervention, prosecution and enforcement.

"Holistically, we're working with the county and other entities to make certain that we imporve the overall quality of life in Pine Hills," Demings said.

A substation opened in a shopping center parking lot along Silver Star Road as part of a joint initiative between the Orange County Sheriff's Office and Orlando police.

In the month since the operation's launch, deputies said they have made 187 arrests, seized drugs and taken 26 guns off the street.

Demings said the Sheriff's Office also needs the community's help to help make this a lasting change.

"We're trying to encourage and empower the citizens to provide information about some of the things that's concerning to them in the area," he said.

While the operation was underway, law enforcement was also engaged in a manhunt for accused cop killer Markeith Loyd, who was later captured. Deputies said the increased presence likely helped further deter crime in the area.

Some who live and work nearby said they have seen a difference since the initiative was launched but more improvement is needed.

"The police presence lately has been a really great improvement, so we're enjoying that," Pine Hills resident Helane Jackson said.

Going forward the Demings asked the Orange County commissioners to consider additional funding for security cameras, mentoring programs and additional resources to continue the initiative.

Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs said the funding will have to be negotiated, but it's always the board's priority to keep deputies and citizens safe.

Sign up for ClickOrlando breaking news alerts and email newsletters

 


About the Authors:

Mark Lehman became a News 6 reporter in July 2014, but he's been a Central Florida journalist and part of the News 6 team for much longer. While most people are fast asleep in their bed, Mark starts his day overnight by searching for news on the streets of Central Florida.