A police intervention under the 17th NW bridge in Miami ended with the eviction of several homeless individuals, including several Cubans, and the alleged deaths of two of them, whose nationality has yet to be confirmed.
The report was shared by the TikTok account “Conducta”, which documents cases of homelessness in South Florida.
In one of their most recent videos, they shared images of the area and testimonies from people who lived under the bridge.
“Nobody talks about this… Under the bridge on 17th NW, two homeless individuals lost their lives to gunfire. We went to distribute food and they shared with us what they experienced,” posted the content creator.
One of the interviewees recounted with evident indignation: “And they came today and took all the tents, all the people, everyone, they threw them all out. When I came back to charge my phone, there was no bed, no clothes, nothing. They threw everyone out, everyone.”
Another man, in a serious tone, pointed out: “Last night, at one in the morning. Two dead, they say; I heard the shots.”
The NW 17th Street bridge had become a refuge for many homeless individuals, including Cubans, who face significant challenges in obtaining employment or housing in an environment of increasing social and migratory crisis.
As of October 1, 2024, Florida's Law HB 1365 went into effect, which prohibits cities and counties from allowing homeless individuals to sleep in public spaces.
The regulations were designed to put an end to the occupation of parks, sidewalks, and other common areas by homeless individuals, and imposed strict measures to regulate this situation throughout the state.
Its impact has been particularly noticeable in Miami, where the number of homeless individuals has been growing alarmingly.
The HB 1365 law allows local governments to create specific camps for homeless individuals for a maximum period of one year.
These camps must be located away from residential and commercial areas. They will be supervised by the Florida Department of Children and Families.
The camps will prohibit the consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs, and their aim will be to provide temporary shelter as well as access to mental health services and substance abuse rehabilitation.
Governor Ron DeSantis signed the law in March 2024, at an event in Miami Beach, as part of his "law and order" agenda.
During the signing, DeSantis emphasized that the legislation aims not only to maintain safety in public spaces but also to address the issue of homelessness in a humanitarian way, facilitating their reintegration into society.
The implementation of the law also grants local police departments the authority to intervene in situations where homeless individuals refuse the assistance offered by local authorities, possibly leading to arrests in case of refusal.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Eviction of Homeless Individuals in Miami
What happened during the police eviction under the 17th NW bridge in Miami?
Police evicted dozens of homeless individuals, including several Cubans, from the 17th NW bridge in Miami. During the operation, two possible fatalities from gunfire were reported, although the nationality of the victims has not been confirmed.
What is Law HB 1365 that affects homeless individuals in Florida?
The HB 1365 Law prohibits homeless individuals from sleeping in public spaces and allows cities and counties to create designated camps for them for a maximum period of one year. This regulation has been strictly enforced in Miami, where the number of homeless individuals has increased significantly.
What is the impact of the migration crisis on homeless Cubans in Miami?
The migration crisis has forced many Cubans to live in precarious conditions, without access to employment or adequate housing. Some have chosen to seek refuge under bridges or in makeshift camps, facing significant challenges in integrating into American society.
How is the community responding to the situation of homeless Cubans in Miami?
The community and local organizations have shown solidarity by offering support and donations to homeless Cubans. Social media campaigns aim to raise awareness of the situation and gather assistance for these vulnerable individuals.
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