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Mount Dora, FL - Mount Dora police say a recent enforcement operation revealed widespread alleged misuse of handicap placards in busy shopping areas, prompting officers to conduct more than 80 traffic stops over several days.
The focused detail took place in the parking lots of Walmart and Target in Mount Dora, where officers checked vehicles displaying handicap placards to confirm whether drivers were legally permitted to use them.
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During the operation, officers recovered more than 30 placards that were allegedly being used illegally.
Police did not identify any individual suspects in connection with the violations, and publicly available information does not show any arrests tied to the enforcement activity.
The department said the effort was aimed at addressing ongoing concerns about improper use of accessible parking permits and ensuring that designated parking spaces remain available for people who legitimately need them.
Authorities noted that misuse of handicap placards can take several forms, including using a placard issued to another person, using an expired permit, or displaying a placard to access parking benefits without authorization.
Officers said the enforcement was designed to protect mobility and access for residents with disabilities who depend on the designated spaces.
In a statement on social media, the Mount Dora Police Department said it will continue monitoring accessible parking areas and may conduct additional operations as needed to reduce alleged misuse and maintain compliance with parking regulations.