PBA of New York State Requests Reinforcements for Upcoming Jones Beach Concert
Wednesday, July 10, 2013Union Calls Current Parks Department Staffing Level Inadequate to Safely Manage Crowd
The Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBA of NYS), the law enforcement union representing New York State’s Park Police, today called on state officials to supplement the inadequate police presence at Jones Beach State Park during the sold-out concert scheduled for Friday, July 12.
The popular band is expected to attract more than 15,000 people to the state-managed facility located in Wantagh (Nassau County). However, at this time, a limited number of state park police officers are assigned to support an event where thousands of patrons begin congregating at the venue in the early morning in anticipation for a show scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.
“State officials routinely announce massive attendance figures for various events, however, they are not as forthcoming with details of disturbing incidents and arrests associated with concerts, and seasonal heat waves,” said PBA President Manuel Vilar.
The PBA of New York State is seeking a commitment by state officials to address inadequate staffing ratios - 1 officer for every 1,000 attending the event - by committing a supplemental detail of state and local police for the long-anticipated event.
“Public safety cannot be sacrificed for public relations,” said Vilar. “Jones Beach is a spectacular location for summertime activities, however, it is equally clear that minor altercations and disputes and can escalate quickly following a day of parking lot partying. In order to protect the public and personnel, it is essential that the patrol ratios be appropriately sized to meet the risk and challenge of the event. The failure to do so is irresponsible.”
Just last week, Phish held a three-day concert series in Saratoga Springs, and according to the Saratoga County District Attorney James Murphy, the weekend event resulted in hundreds of arrests stemming from illegal drug activity and dangerous behavior in and around the event. There was one fatality.
For additional details from Saratoga County DA Murphy, click here.
