Introduction to Increased Patrols
The Los Angeles Police Department has decided to increase patrols around the 16th Annual Thai New Songkran Festival in East Hollywood. This decision comes after a vehicle attack on a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver on Saturday night.
Reason Behind Increased Patrolling
According to Officer Rosario Cervantes of the LAPD, the department is aware of the incident in Vancouver. When asked if the increased patrolling was in response to the violence, Cervantes stated, "We are aware of Vancouver." The LAPD cited "sufficient resources" as the reason for the increased patrols. At least 11 people were killed in the Canadian city’s annual Lapu Lapu festival when a man drove a car into a crowd. The 30-year-old suspect was taken into custody, and the Vancouver Police Department said authorities were "confident that this incident was not an act of terrorism."
Festival Details and Security Measures
The Thai festival was held all day on Hollywood Boulevard, from Western Avenue to Normandie Avenue. A parade began at 8 a.m., and the festival concluded at 10 p.m. Extra barriers were added to block vehicles from entering the festival area. The festival featured live music, Muay Thai boxing demonstrations, religious ceremonies, Thai food, and the Miss Songkran USA Beauty Pageant. Additionally, it offered a health fair with free or low-cost basic health checks, blood pressure measurements, as well as blood sugar and cholesterol testing.
Conclusion
The increased patrols at the 16th Annual Thai New Songkran Festival in East Hollywood demonstrate the LAPD’s commitment to ensuring public safety, especially in the wake of the Vancouver incident. By taking proactive measures, the department aimed to provide a secure environment for festival attendees to enjoy the various cultural activities and celebrations.
FAQs
- Q: Why did the LAPD increase patrols at the Thai festival?
A: The LAPD increased patrols due to the incident in Vancouver and to ensure public safety, citing "sufficient resources." - Q: What happened at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver?
A: A vehicle attack resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people, with the suspect in custody and authorities stating it was not an act of terrorism. - Q: What were some of the features of the Thai festival?
A: The festival included live music, Muay Thai boxing demonstrations, religious ceremonies, Thai food, the Miss Songkran USA Beauty Pageant, and a health fair with free or low-cost health checks. - Q: What security measures were taken at the festival?
A: Extra barriers were added to prevent vehicles from entering the festival area, and increased patrols were conducted by the LAPD.
