Multiple state and federal agencies conducted a large-scale enforcement operation across Florida from March 23 to March 26, inspecting more than 3,300 commercial motor vehicles for safety violations and criminal activity, according to an April 9 announcement by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The operation, called Operation Highway Shield, aimed to address safety issues and threats within Florida’s transportation network. Agencies involved included the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Office of Agriculture Law Enforcement (OALE), Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Department of Homeland Security – Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and local sheriff’s offices.
During the four-day initiative, officials stopped over 3,300 commercial vehicles for inspection or observed violations. Of those inspected, authorities removed 176 drivers from service; among them, 54 were taken out due to language deficiencies. The operation also resulted in the arrest of 35 individuals on criminal-related charges and the detention of another 42 individuals for violating federal immigration laws.
According to the release, each case associated with this operation is managed by its primary agency. B-roll footage documenting Operation Highway Shield is available through official channels.
Operation Highway Shield reflects ongoing efforts by state and federal partners to maintain roadway safety standards while addressing potential security risks related to commercial transportation.