The Nelson Police Department is beefing up patrols of the West Coast Amusement fair that arrived in town on Thursday.
After a stabbing last spring and an assualt on a visiting student the year before, the local department is not taking any chances.
“To ensure the fair continues to be one that can be enjoyed by young people and families, Nelson police will be focusing their attention on the event,” said NPD Inspector Paul Burkart. “Regular and reserve members will be dedicated to the grounds during the busy times.”
The members will be on foot — both on the grounds and in the surrounding area — interacting with the crowds and ensuring those that individuals that create issues are dealt with quickly and appropriately. Those attending the fair are encouraged to report any illegal or suspicious activities to the officers that will be on-site, through Nelson police dispatch through the regular non-emergency line 250-354-3919 or in the cases of crimes in progress or emergency calls by calling 911.
“It has been the observation of the Nelson police that these incidents, and others that occur near or on the fairgrounds, are most often the results of a small number of youth and young adults that believe the event is better enjoyed with alcohol and drugs,” Burkart stated.
“Nelson police would like to wish everyone who is planning to participate in the fair a safe and fun weekend.”