HARRISBURG, Pa. — If you were at bars and restaurants in Harrisburg over Father’s Day weekend, you might’ve noticed an increase in police presence as you headed home.
Earlier this week, Harrisburg officials announced increased police to patrol around when most bars and restaurants close at 2 a.m.
Police say the change is in response to recent illegal incidents happening around closing time, including a mass shooting that killed two in May, forcing them to make changes.
“Everybody deserves the same level of help and protection and safety,” said Harrisburg City Police Commissioner Tom Carter.
Harrisburg City Police were joined by several agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police Mounted Cavalry Unit, and patrolled around bars and restaurants open past midnight.
Authorities say it was to keep an eye on potential illegal activity and keep patrons safe on their way home.
“If I have to call in the S.W.A.T team to walk around with AR-15s strapped to them, Harrisburg will settle down. Harrisburg will be a quiet city, Harrisburg will be a safe city,” Carter continued.
Mike Keely and his band performed at a bar downtown Saturday night. His band, Bus Stop Minister, travels across Pennsylvania to perform.
Keely told FOX43 that the increased police presence is comforting.
“There’s been a few nights where we’re walking back to our cars along and it gets a little sketchy, so it’s definitely some peace of mind that there’s going to be a little bit of an increased force there,” Keely said.
Bar and restaurant patrons also saw some temporary street closures around 2 a.m.
Police were also prepared to deal with any minor who might’ve still been out and about after those businesses closed.
With school now being out for the summer, officials continue to remind parents of the city’s established curfew and warn minors could receive a citation if they violate it.