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Long Beach Police Crack Down on Second Street Nightlife After Tragic Shooting
In the aftermath of a tragic shooting that took the life of 32-year-old Jeremy Spears on October 25, residents of Belmont Shore are looking for safety assurances as nightlife continues to thrive on Second Street. The Long Beach Police Department, alongside local and state agencies, took action to address the community's concerns, but results have been mixed. Rather than uncovering serious infractions, recent inspections revealed that the bars are, in fact, operating within the law.
Community Safety Concerns Highlighted
Commander Shaleana Benson of the Long Beach Police Department's East Division addressed approximately 30 attendees during a public meeting where safety appeared to be the major concern. “We have checked the capacity at the area’s bars for multiple weekends and found them in full compliance,” Benson stated, aiming to reassure residents worried by the shooting, which marked the third violent incident involving a fatality on Second Street since early 2024.
Innovative Approaches to Policing
As part of their efforts, Benson described a creative approach to increase police visibility. In one instance, a lieutenant distributed pizza to officers visiting the area in hopes of encouraging a stronger police presence during evening hours. “Visibility can reduce criminal activity significantly,” she emphasized. Suggesting that a parked police car tactic, common in Rancho Palos Verdes, might also deter potential drunk drivers.
Bar Compliance and Public Drinking Trends
Despite these well-meaning inspections, including undercover checks by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents, police found that bars were not overserving patrons. Over the last four years, the number of tickets issued for public drinking on Second Street plummeted, from 26 in 2019 to just 14 combined since 2019. Benson acknowledged the need for additional strategies to mitigate public drinking concerns, including potential permit stipulations that could enforce stricter security measures and enhance bar oversight.
Future Opportunities for Improved Safety
Looking ahead, the local police academy is set to welcome a new class of 100 recruits, offering hope for increasing police presence in the area, which is currently affected by a 20% vacancy rate within the department. Furthermore, a virtual meeting scheduled for January 28 will allow residents to provide feedback on a city memo proposing new initiatives to regulate nightlife more strictly, which includes options like improving security measures at bars and improving the overall area security.
Resident Reactions: Mixed Feelings and Suggestions
While many residents are appreciative of the police’s active engagement, the community is still grappling with feelings of insecurity. Linda Rosental, a resident with nearly four decades of experience living in different communities, shared her concerns about public alcohol consumption, emphasizing the need for systemic changes. Some locals still perceive ongoing issues linked to nightlife, underscoring the challenge that local agencies face in delivering a safe environment.
The Road Ahead: Balancing Nightlife and Safety
As Long Beach navigates these pressing issues, the community remains hopeful but vigilant. Striking a balance between vibrant nightlife and community safety will require ongoing dialogue and collaboration. Local officials are tasked with finding solutions that work for all, and the upcoming public meeting offers an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and shape what comes next for Second Street.
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