Neptune Beach police roll out a new vehicle to help with security

NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. — Neptune Beach stepped up security this Fourth of July with extra officers from Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and a new vehicle.

Neptune Beach resident Jeff Tyrrell likes to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday with family and friends. He also knows what the holiday brings for the city of Neptune Beach.

“We expect to see a lot of people riding bikes, having fun, enjoying the outdoors and being patriotic,” said Tyrrell.

For Neptune Beach police the holiday means every officer is working, but with a little extra man power from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and a new vehicle nicknamed "the mule," it allows officers get to any situation, especially on the beach.

Chief David Sembach with the Neptune Beach Police Department says the department isn’t looking to ruin anyone’s weekend.

“There will probably be more alcohol violations, you probably won't see too many people at the beach today that don't have alcohol in their possession,” said Sembach.

Action News took a ride in the new 4-wheeler mule and officers ran into a crowd on 1st Street getting a little rowdy. Officers broke up the crowd and cleared the street with no arrests.

Police will have the total number of violations and tickets from the Independence Day holiday weekend on Monday.

WJAX