Pinecrest Real Estate Insights with Hal Feldman: A Conversation with Police Chief Jason Cohen - Episode #138
/As a leading Miami real estate agent with a deep understanding of the Pinecrest market, I recently had the privilege of interviewing Pinecrest's Police Chief, Jason Cohen, for an insightful episode of my MiamiHal Real Estate Show series. We discussed several crucial topics of significant interest to current residents and those considering making Pinecrest their home, particularly families interested in Pinecrest’s excellent schools.
Here are the key takeaways from the video above:
Enhancing Safety Near Pinecrest Schools
Our conversation began with focusing on the newly installed school zone speed cameras, a proactive measure to enhance our children's and pedestrians' safety. Chief Cohen patiently explained the system's mechanics, outlining that the cameras are permissible under a new Florida law and are triggered when a vehicle exceeds the speed limit by 11 mph. The cameras operate before, during, and after school hours, and violations result in a $100 fine, compared to the $200-300 fine issued for officer-observed violations. He emphasized promoting responsible driving habits among motorists and creating a safer environment around our schools.
Traffic Safety and Community Well-being in Pinecrest
Transitioning to broader traffic safety concerns, we explored the impact of red light cameras along the bustling US-1 corridor in Pinecrest. While Chief Cohen acknowledged a decrease in violations since the program's inception in 2016, he pointed out that many infractions still occur, with approximately 16,000 violations issued in the previous fiscal year. This underscored the ongoing need for vigilance and adherence to traffic laws.
We also touched upon speeding trends within the Village of Pinecrest. Chief Cohen shared that while speeding had seen a temporary surge during the pandemic due to reduced traffic volume, it has now largely returned to pre-pandemic levels. He acknowledged the nationwide increase in both speeding incidents and pedestrian fatalities, emphasizing the importance of responsible driving practices in safeguarding the well-being of our community.
Exceptional Policing in Pinecrest
Shifting gears to highlight the exceptional individuals within the Pinecrest Police force, we celebrated the recent addition of Officer Lenore Saria. Chief Cohen proudly recounted her remarkable achievement of attaining the highest GPA ever recorded at the Miami Police Academy, a near-perfect 99.2%. He expressed his enthusiasm for her potential and outlined the comprehensive field training program she would undergo, ensuring a seamless transition from academic excellence to practical application in serving the community.
Hurricane Preparedness and Community in Pinecrest
Recognizing the unique challenges posed by our geographical location, we dedicated a significant portion of the interview to hurricane preparedness. Chief Cohen detailed the department's year-round planning efforts and close coordination with local emergency management agencies. He outlined the meticulous procedures in place for staffing and emergency mobilization during severe weather events, ensuring the safety and security of Pinecrest residents.
We also explored the department's commitment to community engagement. Chief Cohen shared exciting details about upcoming outreach programs, including a heartwarming partnership with a local foster care organization called Embrace Families and the eagerly anticipated annual 'Trick or Treat' event in October. These initiatives showcase the department's dedication to building strong relationships and creating a sense of belonging within the community, which are essential factors to consider when moving to Pinecrest.
Safety Tips and Local Flavor
Toward the end of our conversation, Chief Cohen offered invaluable crime prevention tips, emphasizing the simple yet crucial act of locking car doors and removing key fobs from vehicles. He cited a concerning statistic of 40 vehicle thefts from driveways in Pinecrest the previous year, with 39 cases involving keys left in the car. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant.
Finally, we had a lighthearted moment discussing some high-profile residents who call Pinecrest home. Chief Cohen shared an anecdote about the department's connection with the Miami Heat organization, which led to securing the team's beloved mascot, Burnie, for an upcoming community event. This added a touch of excitement and fun to our local gatherings.
Final Thoughts
My interview with Chief Cohen provided a comprehensive overview of the Pinecrest Police Department's commitment to safety, community engagement, and proactive crime prevention. If you're considering buying or selling real estate in Pinecrest, understanding these aspects of our local environment is essential. Feel free to contact me, Hal Feldman, your trusted Pinecrest Realtor®, for any further information or assistance in your real estate journey.
Interested in learning more about the Pinecrest neighborhood? Follow the page about The Village Of Pinecrest for updates and information.
“Hal was always on time, very professional. Understood our problems, followed thru on everything. Our property sold in 3 days. I highly recommend him to anyone wishing to buy or sell real estate, you won’t be sorry.”
