Newport Beach police Saturday prepared for a possible “takeover” or illegal gathering in the city, hoping to avoid a repeat of the Fourth of July weekend by deploying more officers in the coastal neighborhood.
The Newport Beach Police Department said it’s aware of a “proposed organized gathering in the city this weekend” on social media, warning against promoters and potential participants.
“(We) are working with our regional partners to identify those involved in organizing or promoting any unlawful activity,” the Newport Beach Police Department said. “Anyone who organizes, promotes or participates in criminal activity should expect immediate enforcement action. Criminal acts including violence, vandalism, theft, assault, unlawful assembly and other violations may result in arrest and prosecution.”
The nature of the planned gathering and the specific day and time were not immediately clear.
The latest warning came three weeks after more than 400 people were arrested for a “takeover” event during which an influx of people littered trash, vandalized property and created chaos.
An officer told NBCLA that the unruly people blocked roadways and drank in public, which prompted police to declare an unlawful assembly.
The vast majority of the arrested was under age 25. And many of them were from Nevada and Arizona, police said.
“I was a mad house,” Paul Sanchez, a Newport Beach neighbor, said. “I’m going to do a petition next city council to put a petition to close Newport beach next year for the Fourth of July. Locals only unless you have permission to be here.”
Earlier this month, another Orange County city, Huntington Beach, pledged to crack down on “takeovers” after learning about proposed gatherings in the coastal town.
Police warn even those under the age of 18 could face consequences. If minors break the law, their parents or guardians could be help financial responsible for damages.