HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Harrisburg Police Department announced it will increase its presence in the downtown area on weekends in light of numerous reports of unruly teenagers and other disturbances in the city's restaurant district.
According to a Pennlive report this week, several business owners in the area have been complaining about the growing number of teenagers in the restaurant district, some of whom are causing disturbances in an apparent violation of the city's curfew.
Some of the incidents are more serious.
Last weekend, 22-year-old Kendrell Hall died in an officer-involved shooting after firing shots at pursuing officers during a foot chase on the 200 block of South Street.
Earlier this month, another man was hospitalized in a shooting in the area of North Second and Locust Streets.
The police department said it will be joined by outside agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police Mounted Unit, in attempting to maintain a safe and peaceful environment
"The Harrisburg Police encourages patrons to visit the downtown area, but to be aware that during these focused times there will be increased police presence and zero tolerance for criminal actions," the police department said. "Patrons and visitors should also be aware of temporary street closures during bar and restaurant closing time (2 a.m.)"
"(We) are also aware of the increase in minors present during the weekend bar and restaurant closings. We would like to remind parents/guardians of the established city curfew ordinance and the penalties that apply to those offenses."
