The West Palm Beach Police Dept. embarked on an innovative project in December 2007. In conjunction with the Community Redevelopment Agency we formed the Entertainment District Unit. Borrowing ideas from other highly successful programs in Nashville and Memphis, Tn. we created a highly focused unit of dedicated Officers and supervisors. The EDU is tasked with providing for the safety and security of those that live, work and play in the vibrant downtown of West Palm Beach.

The EDU has strived to create partnerships with various entities in the downtown such as the Downtown Development Authority which is responsible for marketing and attracting new businesses to the downtown. We also work very closely with IPC Security and the Related Group serving the needs of City Place, the largest open air shopping area in Palm Beach County. Many of the thriving businesses in downtown have partnered as well with the EDU in achieving a high level of commitment to providing safety and growth in the downtown. One of example of this dynamic partnership is the newly created Downtown Radio Network, a highly innovative partnership program with the DDA. This dedicated radio network directly links businesses, condominiums and security with EDU Officers. Business owners can speak directly to their Police Officer via two-way radio when they require Police assistance. This was made possible with funding from the DDA.

The EDU has been responsible for enacting a highly successful teen curfew as well as the “mapping program” for first time offenders. We have opened up levels of communication which previously did not exist between businesses, city officials and private/public firms thus ensuring we all work together for the betterment of the downtown. One of our newest programs is the Public Safety Guide program which has been championed by Chief Delsa Bush. This program employs part-time civilian employees acting as downtown ambassadors providing valuable information and a point of contact to citizens. These Public Safety Guides utilize the latest in handheld technology provided by the Eponic Company to provide printed directions and information to citizens in real time on the streets.

Officers of the EDU utilize non-traditional means of patrolling such as bicycles, segways and extensive foot patrols. The focus is always on community outreach and open lines of communication. These innovative patrolling techniques allow the officers of the EDU to remain engaged with the public we serve. The EDU also wears a specialized uniform designed to allow for them to be better seen at night and stand out in a crowd.

Since the inception of the EDU, downtown has seen a 41% decrease in overall crime. Our downtown has been recognized by Mayor Frankel as one of the safest in South Florida. We are very proud of her praise and continue to strive towards a better downtown for all to enjoy.

Patrol Division II - Entertainment District Management Team
Lieutenant Randy Maale (561) 822-1751 rmaale@wpb.org

Platoon I - Sergeant Frank Distefano (561) 822-1617
Platoon II - Sergeant Cliff Hagan (561) 822-1983