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August 5, 2009
Vla EMAIL LdhanBeaucharnn(~mlamlbeachfl.gov
Robert Par: her
City Clcrk
City of Miarni Beach
1700 Convention Center Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139
RE: Julia Tuttle Causeway
Dear Mr. Parches
Thank you for contacting Governor Charlie Cris[ regarding the Julia Tuttle Causeway,
under which a number of individuals ere reportedly residing. The Governor asked that 1; espond
on his behalt.
The Governor appreciates the concerns described ir. the resolution of the Mayor and City
Commission o(Miami Beach, and will take them into account in considering the City's suggestion
That a statewide laskforce be convened. Although Florida law establishes residency restrictions
for sexual offenders under supervision, Iccal ordinances are often more stringent Than the state
restrictions, making it more difficult for offenders to find permissible housing in certain cities or
counties. The minimum} residency restriction for sexual offenders under supervision in Miami and
Miami-Dade County is 2,500 feet, well beyond the state law of 1,000 feel, significantly reducing
the locations where sex offenders can reside while adhering to the requirements of supervision.
The Florda DepaKment of Corrections probation officers do not place sex offenders
under Ine Julia Tuttle Causeway. Officers are responsible for making sure that sex offenders
comply with their court ordered supervision. It is the responsibility of the offender, not the
Department of Corrections, to find a place to live Ihat complies with all stale laws and local
ordinances. Regarding those Individuals living under the bridge that are on sex offender
probation, whether or not they are in violation of a local ordinance is a matter for local law
enforcement.
Again, thank you for contacting Governor Crist to relay the concerns and proposals
enumerated in Miami Beach's resolution.
Sincerely, I~^%/
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. Andrew Atkinson
Assistant General Counsel
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