New police collaboration aims to combat prostitution and drug trafficking on Calle Ocho by eliminating against hourly motel rentals
Cracking Down on a Decades-Old Problem
Coral Gables and Miami are joining forces to address a long-standing issue on Calle Ocho: hourly motel rentals that have become hubs for prostitution and drug activity. A proposed joint police zone between the two cities is gaining momentum, moving closer to approval. This collaboration would allow Coral Gables law enforcement to conduct drug seizures and investigations within Miami’s city limits, but only with the Miami City Manager’s consent.
The initiative targets a stretch of Calle Ocho featuring motels like the Jamaica Motel, Stardust Motel, Miami Executive Hotel, and Tamiami Motel. These establishments, known for offering hourly rentals at rates of $30 to $40, often promote privacy and discretion. Coral Gables has already passed an ordinance banning hourly rentals within its jurisdiction, imposing fines of up to $5,000 for violations and up to $15,000 for facilitating prostitution or sex trafficking.
While only one business, Wishes Hotel, lies within Coral Gables, the city is committed to extending its crackdown into neighboring areas. Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago emphasized the importance of addressing this issue as part of a broader effort to enhance community safety and reduce criminal activity.
Challenges in Approval and Implementation
The resolution to create the joint police zone has faced some delays. It was deferred during the Miami Commission’s March 23 meeting due to extended discussions on unrelated issues, including Airbnb regulations. Miami Police Chief Rodolfo Llanes, who was not present during initial negotiations, has also requested further details before the matter is brought to a vote.
City officials from both Coral Gables and Miami recognize the complexity of the problem. These motels, some of which have operated for decades, fall under existing urban zoning codes that define hotels as providing daily, weekly, or monthly accommodations. Changing enforcement strategies and expanding oversight requires careful coordination between the two cities.
Coral Gables has already set a precedent with its strict ordinance, which not only bans hourly rentals but also threatens business owners with severe penalties, including the revocation of use certificates for repeated violations.
Efforts to curb illegal activity on Calle Ocho are crucial for the safety and well-being of our communities. Calle Ocho News will continue to monitor and report on this collaboration between Coral Gables and Miami.
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