Cabazon Outlets Shut Down After Looting Threats

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The Desert Hills Premium Outlets complex in Cabazon shut down Sunday afternoon after receiving looting threats amid ongoing demonstrations against police violence sweeping Southern California, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department told Patch.

Outlet stores that were open Sunday began to close early around 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sergeant Deanna Pecoraro told Patch. Officials did not specify how the threats were made, but said no looting had taken place so far.

"The outlets decided to shut down for the safety of the area," Pecoraro said.

Deputies planned to stay in the area Sunday afternoon.

Intense protests have taken place across the state and country over the death of George Floyd, killed in Minneapolis Monday after a white police officer kneeled on his neck for more than eight minutes as Floyd cried for air.

Riverside County has played host to multiple peaceful protests, including a demonstration in Temecula Saturday that drew several hundred people.