Law enforcement give Sunny Isles Beach high-rise safety tips

Police work with condo security, arrest alleged bike thief

SUNNY ISLES BEACH, Fla. ā€“ Police in Sunny Isles Beach, where a lot of people live in luxury high rises, say residents aren't immune to property crime. The department says officers on patrol keep a close eye on condos, and its crime prevention team works closely with building security.

Last month, a man was caught on surveillance cameras at the Millennium condominium on Collins Avenue, allegedly stealing a pricey bicycle from the parking garage. But an alert security guard spotted the crime in action on closed-circuit TV. According to the police report, he chased the would-be thief on foot. The guard then called police.

"Our officers were on the scene in less than a minute (and) detained the individual," said Officer Mitchell Glansberg.

Glansberg said the relationship between police officers and condo security is crucial.

"We have a great relationship with a lot of the security companies that provide security for the buildings. We work with the property managers," he said.

But even a building with stellar 24-hour security can be vulnerable.

"When you live in a fortress-style building, you sometimes feel as though you're in a castle and nothing can happen. Well, that's not always the case," said Sgt. Brian Schnell.

Schnell said the department's crime prevention officers advise condo dwellers to be aware of their surroundings, especially when leaving their cars or using the elevator.

"Know your neighbors," Schnell said. "In this day and age, how many people don't know their neighbors? If you know who your neighbors are, you're watching out for them, they're watching out for you, and suspicious activity is often reported."

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