NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. — On a warm morning in Neptune Beach, local residents stepped outside to find a heavy police presence in the area. It wasn’t related to a crime scene, however, but to neighborhood crime prevention - a walk to raise awareness was led by Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters.
The event gave community members a direct line to law enforcement officers, offering a them a chance to ask questions and air everyday safety concerns.
One resident brought up the issues of what they said is a growing concern - kids’ use of electric bicycles in the area.
“We talked to them a little bit about e-bikes and how sometimes some of those kids are going pretty fast on the sidewalk,” said local resident Judy Wagner, noting that several young riders ride without helmets.
While Neptune Beach operates its own municipal police department, Waters said JSO remains committed to supporting local partners whenever additional resources are required.
“We’re going to see what we hear here and then we’ll address those issues with [Neptune Beach Police Chief] Mike Key wherever we can help and work through the issues,” Waters said.
For many neighbors, the initiative provided a welcome opportunity to build trust and connect directly with leadership.
“He’s open and accessible, and that’s huge,” resident Paul Wagner said.
Waters stressed that remaining visible in the community is a core priority for his administration.
“I’m not a desk sheriff. I believe in getting out, getting out in the public,” Waters said. “I am not afraid to walk around. There’s no part of this city that I won’t touch, and this is just another part.”
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office’s next crime prevention walk scheduled for September 26 in District 1 on the Northside near the Gateway Town Center.
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