DELAND, Fla. – DeLand police are increasing security around their downtown station after recent harassment, vandalism and violent incidents.

Situated on the bustling main street, the police station witnesses the daily flow of locals and tourists. Despite the presence of cautionary signs, individuals can easily reach the area behind the station, gaining access to police vehicles and officers.

Now, the city plans to build a tall, gated wall around the station to protect both officers and the public.

“Police are detaining people here, and others are confronting and ambushing them,” stated Destiny Wiggins, the Police Public Information Officer.

Issues with vandalism to police vehicles have also been on the rise. Since 2018, when the station’s parking lot was targeted by gunfire, the demand for increased security has become more pressing. Fortunately, there were no injuries.

“When you have a wall, you’re able to keep people out especially when some of our officers are going out on calls,” Wiggins said.

Pedestrians walking near the department’s parking lots can sometimes be at risk, and the open access can slow officers responding to calls.

“That can sometimes hinder police officers from going out and getting to those calls when necessary, so a wall is a barrier to keep people out who don’t need to be in the area,” Wiggins added.

The city is considering an 8-foot-tall wall with gates to maintain pedestrian safety. The city commission recently approved the plan.

“The commission is leaning towards something that was a little more aesthetically pleasing to fit in with the architecture of City Hall, the police station and downtown DeLand,” Commissioner Richard Paiva said.

Paiva said the project is now moving into the design phase.

“Initially, it was estimated that the wall would cost $100,000 and it would cost $30,000 each for three of the gates, which would have put the cost around $300,000,” Paiva said.

The final cost will depend on the design, which is still being developed. There is no timeline yet for when construction will begin.