Sacramento is expecting large crowds as several events take place at once, including the Aftershock Festival at Discovery Park, which will host more than 160,000 people, a Sacramento Republic FC game, and a concert at Golden 1 Center. The Sacramento Police Department is working with event organizers and adding extra security to manage the crowds. “It’s no secret we’re short staffed, but all of our officers are stepping up to help throughout the weekend,” Officer Anthony Gamble told KCRA.
In preparation for large gatherings, Sacramento police have increased their presence across the city. Department spokesperson Allison Smith said the assignments are “part of weeks of planning,” according to ABC10. Security measures include metal detectors at festival entrances, added patrols, and officers working overtime.
After reports of cellphone thefts at last year’s Aftershock Festival, officers are “reminding people to stay alert,” and to keep their belongings secure. Festival organizers, Danny Wimmer Presents, have introduced a system to “have an online Lost & Found program, where fans can quickly look up missing items and arrange pick-up on site,” as per KCRA. Concertgoer Clay Bigahim said, “and it’s a lot different now than it was back then. I felt much less unsafe going to big festivals 20 years ago. So this is a very different experience,” as mentioned by ABC10.
