Authorities say Labor Day weekend went smoothly
The beach booze ban and cooler weather made this Labor Day more family-friendly and enjoyable for all, including police officers and lifeguards, authorities said Monday.
Sixty-one traffic citations were written, eight DUI arrests made and 61 field sobriety tests administered on Sunday, Sept. 6, by the San Diego Sheriff’s Department and County Regional Avoid the 14 task Force in Del Mar, Solana Beach and Encinitas.
Officials also made two narcotics arrests, two drunk in public arrests and found one minor in possession of alcohol, a news release from the sheriff’s department stated.
The operation coincided with the Pacific Classic Racing Festival and concert at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
“As of yesterday, we had an estimated 721,000 people at San Diego beaches and we could reach close to a million for the holiday weekend,” said San Diego police Assistant Chief Shelley Zimmerman. “It’s been fantastic – things are going great.”
“Families are out having a wonderful time. This is what San Diego’s all about. It’s another ‘Chamber of Commerce’ day. The crowds are larger, but we needed fewer officers,” said Zimmerman.
She said it has been like night and day since the beach alcohol ban has been in effect. Zimmerman was in Pacific Beach today, where an alcohol-fueled Labor Day melee in 2007 resulted in numerous arrests.
Zimmerman said there had been very few arrests and citations issued.
“The vast majority of people are behaving. We’ve had some lost kids because of more families, but they’ve all been reunited,” said Zimmerman.
San Diego lifeguards were equally pleased.
“It’s busy – not the Fourth of July, but busy,” said San Diego Lifeguard Lt. Nick Lerma. “We’re properly staffed, and not being
overwhelmed.”
Lerma said there had been some rescues, but nothing serious, and the water temperature was a pleasant 73 to 76 degrees.
Related posts:
- Authorities issue citations at Del Mar Racetrack
- Police, lifeguards bracing for hot, busy weekend
- Alcohol-related crime down over weekend
- One fatality reported over busy holiday weekend
- Why the alcohol ban in Solana Beach?
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