In a recent police operation under Miami's NW 17th Bridge, several homeless individuals, including some of Cuban descent, were evicted. Reports have surfaced indicating that two individuals may have died, though their nationalities remain unconfirmed. The incident was brought to light by the TikTok account "Conducta," which highlights homelessness issues in South Florida.
In a recent video, the account shared footage of the site and interviews with those who had been living under the bridge. "No one talks about this... Under the NW 17th Bridge, two homeless individuals lost their lives to gunfire. We went to distribute food, and they told us what they experienced," the content creator posted.
One interviewee expressed clear frustration: "They came today and took all the tents, everyone, everyone was thrown out. When I returned to charge my phone, there were no beds, no clothes, nothing. They kicked everyone out, everyone." Another man, with a somber tone, added, "Last night, at one in the morning. Two dead, they say, I heard the gunshots."
The NW 17th Bridge had become a refuge for numerous homeless individuals, including Cubans, grappling with significant challenges in finding employment or housing amid an escalating social and migratory crisis.
Impact of Florida’s HB 1365 Law
Since October 1, 2024, Florida's HB 1365 Law has been in effect, banning cities and counties from allowing homeless individuals to sleep in public spaces. This legislation aims to end the occupation of parks, sidewalks, and other public areas by the homeless, implementing strict measures statewide.
The law's impact has been particularly pronounced in Miami, where the homeless population has been rising at an alarming rate. HB 1365 permits local governments to establish specific camps for the homeless for up to one year. These camps must be located away from residential and commercial areas and will be overseen by Florida's Department of Children and Families.
Prohibited within these camps is the consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs, with the goal of providing temporary shelter and access to mental health services and substance abuse rehabilitation.
Governor Ron DeSantis signed the law in March 2024 during an event in Miami Beach, aligning with his "law and order" agenda. During the signing, DeSantis emphasized that the legislation seeks not only to maintain safety in public spaces but also to humanely address homelessness, facilitating social reintegration.
The law's implementation also empowers local police departments to intervene when homeless individuals refuse assistance from authorities, allowing for arrests if they decline help.
FAQs on Miami's Homelessness and HB 1365
What happened under Miami's NW 17th Bridge?
Police conducted an operation to evict homeless individuals, including several Cubans, from under the bridge. There are reports of two possible deaths during the incident.
What is Florida's HB 1365 Law?
HB 1365 is a Florida law effective from October 1, 2024, prohibiting homeless individuals from occupying public spaces, and permitting local authorities to establish temporary camps for them.
How are the temporary camps for the homeless regulated?
The camps must be located away from residential and commercial areas, overseen by the Department of Children and Families, and prohibit alcohol and illegal drug consumption.