Deputies from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Key West Police will be working on the holidays to keep the community safe.
Sheriff’s deputies will be out in force watching out for drunk and unsafe drivers this month through New Year’s Eve with the goal of making sure holiday travel is as safe as possible here in the Florida Keys.
Deputies will be concentrating their efforts on drunk drivers, improper passing and other unsafe driving practices throughout the upcoming season in an effort to save lives and make this holiday season a safe and enjoyable one for everyone.
So, when you attend special holiday events, the sheriff’s office recommends designating a sober driver or taking a cab or rideshare service home if you decide to drink alcohol. Whatever you choose to do, don’t drink and drive. If you drink and drive and get caught, you will spend the night in jail.
Also, the sheriff’s office warns that the holidays are often rife with reports of scams and theft.
Be wary of those trying to collect money over the phone, particularly if they ask for donations with gift cards. That should always be a red alert.
Residents should know that government agencies (as well as law enforcement agencies and utility companies) will always send you notification of an issue via the mail or in person. Always be alert on the phone. Ask for proof via a letter in the mail. Never give personal information over the phone.
Never make any sort of purchase or monetary transaction using gift cards online or via the phone. Gift cards are a giveaway you are being scammed.
Residents should never give personal, monetary or gift card information over the phone — to anyone regardless of who they claim to be.Anyone with information about any crimes should contact the sheriff’s office at 305-292-7000. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-471-8477. Tipsters can remain anonymous and if a tip leads to an arrest in the case, the caller may be eligible for a cash reward. Tips may also be submitted online at floridakeyscrimestoppers.com. Tips can also be submitted via social media such as Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using the @CrimeStoppers305 hashtag.
