Tampa police say one arrest happened during the parade, while the rest occurred once the event was over.
TAMPA, Fla. — As pirates and parade goers powered through the cold, Tampa’s police arrested 12 people during and after the Gasparilla parade, one of the largest events in the country.
Police said one person was arrested for a misdemeanor while the parade was underway. Afterwards, 11 people were placed under arrest for driving under the influence after the parade concluded. The arrests happened citywide.
“Yesterday law enforcement personnel braved the cold alongside the thousands of pirates who invaded our city,” Tampa police said in a statement on social media. “We’re proud to share that this year’s event resulted in just one misdemeanor arrest while the parade was underway.”
Tampa police also thanked the partnering agencies that helped with security during the celebration.
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Before Gasparilla, Tampa police prepared their officers, including the marine unit and motorcycle unit. Officials said that they wanted to keep the event fun and safe.
“We will be monitoring the events from our Real-Time Crime Center, by air and even by boat. Keep in mind, a temporary flight restriction will be in place,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said before this weekend, while officers prepared.
Law enforcement-approved drones were allowed at the event as multiple agencies were tasked with watching over the massive crowds and busy waterways.
Reports of the event indicated that over 250,000 people braved the cold and the rain to see the pirates take over the streets of Tampa.