After viral posts, Pembroke Pines police see influx of parking violation reports

The Pembroke Pines Police Department is using social media to call out drivers who illegally park in accessible spots.

The campaign has drawn a flood of resident tips and renewed attention to a $250 violation that police say harms vulnerable community members.

FULL STORY: ‘Expensive reminder’: Pines police call out illegal accessible parking on social media

Here are key takeaways:

• The campaign launched in early May with an Instagram post exposing five vehicles illegally parked in accessible spots at Pembroke Pines Mall. A dozen drivers have been featured, often with cheeky captions.
• Illegally parking in an accessible spot carries a $250 fine, and violators risk having their vehicles towed to impound lots under city ordinance.
• Shopping plazas, gym parking lots and local businesses are the most common sites of the violation, according to PPPD spokesperson Amanda Conwell.
• Disabled parking placards are assigned to the disabled person, not the car. The permit holder must be traveling with the driver, or it counts as a violation.
• Conwell noted the issue is especially harmful in Pembroke Pines because of the city’s disabled veteran population. Residents can report violations by calling 954-764-4357.

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