Palm Springs Police ramping up security ahead of Halloween weekend
Luis Avila
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — Halloween excitement isn’t just for kids — adults are gearing up to join in the festivities as well. One of the valley’s biggest hotspots is downtown Palm Springs, where large crowds are expected to fill the streets this weekend.
Hundreds of attendees are expected at the Halloween block party on Arenas, prompting law enforcement to increase patrols and implement safety measures.
“We’ll have additional staff that will be down there. The roadway will be closed off, there will be some barricades that will be set up and we’ll also have personnel on site providing security and we’ll actually have some personnel doing overwatch of the event.”
Lt. Gustavo Araiza, Palm Springs Police Department
With large gatherings often come other issues, particularly when alcohol is involved. Local bar owners, like Dean Lavine at Blackbook, are also stepping up to ensure visitors celebrate responsibly.
“All of our staff is responsible for taking training which is serving alcohol with care… We want to make sure that everyone who comes here to dine or drink is in a comfortable, safe environment.”
Dean Lavine, Blackbook Bar Owner
Lavine emphasized that keeping Halloween safe is a team effort.
“We work together all of the bars with the city and police department to ensure that we have a safe event down here.”
Dean Lavine, Blackbook Bar Owner
Officers will maintain a strong presence throughout the weekend, as other major events, including Gay Leather Pride, draw additional crowds to the area.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.