Pembroke Pines Commissioner Under Investigation for 'Police' Stunt at School

Flanagan High School, Pembroke Pines, Florida, USA - Pembroke Pines City Commissioner Jay Schwartz has found himself in hot water as he faces an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) following allegations of posing as a law enforcement officer. This troubling incident took place on May 21, right at the end of the school year at Flanagan High School, where Schwartz was teaching an aviation class. According to Local 10 News, Schwartz confronted several students, purportedly in an attempt to search them for contraband, possibly marijuana. He allegedly displayed a ceremonial badge resembling a police badge, which he is not authorized to use since he holds no law enforcement powers.

The situation escalated when students, visibly shaken by Schwartz’s actions, approached a police officer at the school to report the incident. Following protocol, Pembroke Pines Police Chief Jose Vargas referred the matter to the FDLE to ensure there were no conflicts of interest in the investigation. City Manager Charles Dodge confirmed that Schwartz’s actions were reported on the very day they occurred, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations.

Past Controversies

This is not the first time Schwartz has stirred the pot in local governance. Serving as a city commissioner since 2012, he has previously faced allegations of bullying and disruptive behavior during city meetings. His recent actions at Flanagan High School have only intensified scrutiny on him. While Schwartz is affiliated with Broward College and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as a visiting instructor, he is not an official employee of Broward County Schools.

In light of the allegations, the school district has taken measures to limit Schwartz’s interactions with students, allowing him to return only under supervision to administer a final exam after the incident. His future engagements at the school will be closely monitored as the investigation unfolds. As the local community watches closely, questions abound about the ramifications of this incident on Schwartz’s political future.

Broader Implications

The role of safe-school officers is crucial in maintaining a secure environment in educational institutions. As outlined by Florida law, school districts are mandated to partner with law enforcement or security agencies to assign safe-school officers across all facilities, including charter schools. This establishes a framework that necessitates thorough background checks, drug testing, and psychological evaluations for anyone stepping into such roles.

Interestingly, the law dictates various options for ensuring safety in schools, including the employment of School Resource Officers (SROs) who must be certified law enforcement officers. Other options include School Safety Officers and Security Guards who require similar vetting. These measures are in place to foster a secure learning environment and prevent situations akin to the one involving Schwartz.

As the FDLE investigates the incident and its particulars, the Pembroke Pines community must reflect on how such actions by a public official can impact trust in their elected representatives and the wider educational landscape. Schwartz’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities that come with public office and the importance of maintaining boundaries—especially within educational settings.