South Haven Police will be holding a debriefing this week to talk about the riots on North Beach that resulted in the use of pepper spray, and a decision to evacuate the thousands there Sunday night prior to their big fireworks show. The goal will be to determine if they could have done something better. North Beach was closest to the launch site and the most crowded, and Sergeant Kyle Griffith says they had brought in extra officers from all over in anticipation of a huge crowd.
“To say we beefed up would be an understatement,” Griffith said. “But apparently 80 to 90 officers isn’t enough.”
He says things just got out of hand when large crowds began dancing and some began throwing bottles and the decision was made to clear the beach.
“It is a very bad thing. We are very, very disappointed.”
They will be busy pursuing warrants to charge the dozens arrested Sunday night. He says it’s too early to say if they will impose new restrictions next year to prevent a repeat.
Griffith said Tuesday that at least two dozen people were arrested and says the police chief’s estimate of around 50 arrests was “realistic.” He says final numbers will be compiled this week and City Council will discuss any concerns Tuesday night.Griffith says video from police body cameras and the public “totally justifies” the beach closure.
