Vandalism, Thefts, and Disorderly Conduct Abounds Post-Laker Championship
The Los Angeles Police Department had a busy night following the Laker’s Championship win just nights ago. As anticipated the celebratory crowd got a little out of control but LAPD managed to handle the situation far better than in situations past.
This LA Times article points out that after the 2007 Immigration Rights protest that ended with several innocent non-violent protestors being beaten, the department overhauled their crowd control methods in an attempt to maintain order without resulting to violence.
This championship was a perfect test of what had been learned. Although there was serious property destruction and the fans racked up over $100,000 in damage to a local shoe store, injuries were few throughout the night.
In all, the report states that car windshields were damaged, stores were looted, and jerseys burned. Around 21 people were arrested and 8 police officers injured. The destructive party was over around midnight.
What charges these arrestees face is not clear though they could be related to the looting, the vandalism, or the injuries sustained by the officers. Parties and celebrations like this are a little extreme and go beyond having a good time.
Crowds seem to excite individuals and amp them up. People who wouldn’t normally resort to criminal activity often act out of character in situations like this, getting caught up in the moment. Although that is no excuse for criminal behavior, it is an explanation.
If you have faced vandalism or theft charges you know what kind of treatment to expect on your day in court. You know that once the excitement of the night wears off you are left facing those charges and potential penalties all alone.
When facing criminal charges you need an aggressive defense attorney willing to go to bat for you. Call me to discuss the details of the case you are dealing with and I may be able to give you some free legal advice.
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.