Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez joined the Doral Police Department for a specialized disabled parking enforcement training focused on identifying permit misuse, preventing fraud, and protecting parking spaces reserved for residents with disabilities.
The training addressed common forms of abuse, including situations in which a relative or friend uses a vehicle displaying a disabled parking permit while the registered permit holder is not present. Misuse of these permits prevents seniors, veterans, and residents with disabilities from accessing spaces they genuinely need and undermines the integrity of a program designed to protect mobility, accessibility, and independence.
"Disabled parking spaces are not a convenience. They are an essential accommodation for residents who depend on them every day," said Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez. "By working directly with law enforcement and strengthening verification tools, we are sending a clear message that fraud and abuse will not be tolerated in Miami-Dade County."
Fernandez also highlighted the QR code verification system the Tax Collector's Office is implementing to assist officers in confirming that the registered permit holder is present before a permit may be used. The new technology is designed to support enforcement efforts, increase accountability, and further protect one of the County's most important accessibility programs.
The Tax Collector's Office remains committed to working alongside the Doral Police Department and law enforcement agencies throughout Miami-Dade County to protect the integrity of the disabled parking permit program. Fernandez thanked Chief of Police Matthew Castillo, the City of Doral, and the dedicated men and women of the Doral Police Department for their partnership, leadership, and shared commitment to protecting residents with disabilities and ensuring these spaces remain available for those who truly depend on them.
