El Paso Police plans to present a strategic public safety plan to address incidents in bars and house parties
UPDATE: In response to the escalating concerns surrounding violence at house parties and bars, the El Paso Police Department unveiled an extensive public safety plan during yesterday's City Council meeting.
The major focus of the meeting was the Cincinnati Entertainment District, listed as one of the most problematic areas in El Paso.
Chief Pacillas, alongside multiple regional commanders, addressed the City Council, highlighting the collaborative effort with various agencies and direct engagement with local businesses, “Our approach is to educate the business owners on some of the danger zones or minefields that they might be in so that we don't have to deal with problems. In fact, we had a meeting several weeks ago where over 20 business owners showed up.” He emphasized owners have shown interest in learning how to properly check for weapons.
El Paso Police has 28 officers for mandatory overtime during weekends in these targeted areas. Chief Pacillas mentioned that funding for the overtime officers is sourced partly from the Texas Gang Unit and partially from the EPPD budget.
Some of their initiatives include increased lighting and the installation of new cameras, a final phase under the City Watch program.
The Kern Place Association, representing the local community, expressed support for the police and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission's (TABC) presence. They emphasized the importance of enforcing existing laws and ordinances. In a statement, the association noted, "Businesses in Kern Place understand our issues, abide by laws, and have contributed to hiring off-duty police officers for common areas and neighborhoods."
Additionally, El Paso Police is working with Fort Bliss Military to enhance security during weekends. Lieutenant Colonel Lee Monzon, Director of Emergency Services for Fort Bliss, highlighted their collaborative efforts. “We do find at least 10% where they they need a little bit more attention. However, you'll see routine and deliberate efforts across throughout the week to end the week additionally with safety briefs in all,” he stated.
Regarding house parties, El Paso Police says they work with Airbnb to control underage drinking in rentals and identify potential house parties before they occur.
This comprehensive safety plan reflects a multi-agency approach, involving law enforcement, businesses, and community associations, to address the growing concerns of violence at house parties and bars in El Paso. The collaborative efforts aim to create a safer environment for the community.
EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso has seen a significant increase in violence around house parties and entertainment venues. Today, El Paso Police Department will address concerns presenting a strategic public safety plan in and around those areas.
According to EPPD, the most problematic areas include Cincinnati Entertainment District, part of Airway Blvd and North Zaragoza. From the beginning of this year to October 31These three entertainment areas have produced a total of 2,861 dispatched and officer initiated calls. Of those calls, 462 involved weapons, shots fired and/or subject disturbance calls.
Their plan will be presented at the city meeting. The presentation includes solutions by increasing social host ordinance, noise ordinance, and pro-active initiatives in entertainment districts.
City representative, and former El Paso police officer, Henry Rivera placed this item on the agenda. He says this presentation is crucial to address the concerns of the community.
Rivera emphasizes the significant increase, “We didn't we didn't have this before. Not so many shootings, so many killings. We didn't have it. And I can honestly say that the the the attitude today is really a danger to everyone who happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
The funding and benefits will also be discussed in the meeting.
Full presentation below:
