The Orlando Police Department has been asked to assist law enforcement in Sanibel Island with patrol functions for the next five weeks. Florida’s west coast was hammered by Hurricane Ian. Sanibel Island is one area still feeling the impacts of Hurricane Ian.
Orlando officers will assist in patrol operations, following local reports of crime including burglaries and thefts. OPD officers will assist in different groups over the next few weeks, and will reportedly stay at a base camp during their deployment to southwest Florida.
Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith met with the first group of officers as they departed to Sanibel. Ten officers will be joined by a lieutenant and sergeant for the first group.
Crime in Orlando also remains a persistent problem under Mayor Buddy Dyer, but OPD also believes it is important to support Florida law enforcement in times of need.
