MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Miami Beach Commissioner David Suarez is clashing with the city’s top cop, over the department’s handling of a recent pro-Palestinian rally at a synagogue, even questioning if he should be fired.
“I don’t know why you’re laughing at this. I’m not laughing. Let me finish. I’m offended. It’s a very serious matter,” said Suarez.
Mayor Steven Meiner played a video at Wednesday’s commission meeting from social media. The clip showed what he said were elderly members of the Temple Emanu-El being yelled at by pro-Palestinian protestors outside the temple in February.
“My heart broke when I saw that,” said Meiner.
“If it was a KKK rally, things would have been different,” added Suarez.
Suarez is accusing Chief Wayne Jones of not providing enough manpower at the protest, which also spilled inside a ticketed event at the place of worship.
“I don’t ever want to see a situation where elderly Jewish people have to leave their synagogue and run a gauntlet,” Suarez said.
“I do believe that if it was any other group of people other than Jewish that these demonstrations would’ve been handled much differently,” Meiner said to Jones, who defended himself and his department’s response stressing he had adequate manpower and showed video of his officers at the scene.
Commissioners unanimously passed a measure forcing the chief to inform them of every future protest ahead of time, and ordering police to restrict protesters to the fullest extent of the law.
The following statement was released by Miami Beach police:
“As the Chief of Police and a former resident of Miami Beach, I emphasize my unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of every resident in our city, including our valued Jewish community.
The Miami Beach Police Department acted proactively by engaging in communication with the temple authorities in advance to coordinate security measures for the demonstration. A meticulous operational plan was crafted for this ticketed event, and our department worked diligently to implement a staffing plan to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and participants.
Upholding the provisions of the United States Constitution and prioritizing the protection of all who live, work, and visit in our city remains my top priorities.”
Chief Wayne A. Jones, Miami Beach Police