Manchester Police 'Patrol Advisory' Aimed At Possible Street Takeover

MANCHESTER, CT — A beefed-up police presence will be in the Buckland Hills section of Manchester Saturday in an effort to thwart a potential street takeover event.

MPD Spokesman Lt. Ryan Shea said the cops were tipped off to the potential gathering via social media.

Police then put out their own alert via social media regarding an "Increased Patrol Advisory" for Pleasant Valley Road.

"We're putting it out there to show we will also have a presence," Shea said. "We want to make it very clear we will be out in force Saturday."

Street takeovers typically involve groups of young people in customized, loud cars clogging up local roads and commuter lots. They are often publicized on social media and police have been battling them by, for all intents and purposes, showing up early and waiting for the participants.

That was the case in mid-June, when a takeover event in Vernon was broken up quickly by a strong police presence. State and local police, armed with a license plate reader, parked near a commuter lot where the event was being staged. After a few tickets were handed out for various motor vehicle violations, the takeover group dispersed early on. The group headed toward Manchester and Hartford, where more officers were waiting.

All has not been peaceful, however, in May, a street takeover event in Tolland turned violent when takeover participants attacked cars. Several arrests have since been made.

Manchester police releases a statement regarding Saturday:

"The Manchester Police Department's foremost objective is to ensure the safety of the public. Given past incidents and the unpredictable conduct of participants, we are committed to providing the community with early notification to potential hazards to ensure their well-being.

"Furthermore, we wish to caution prospective attendees that our officers will promptly and efficiently address any unlawful activities.

"Additionally, we have notified neighboring law enforcement agencies about the possibility of similar events, and they are working in close coordination with our department to deter and respond to any potential threats to public safety.

"As we approach the Labor Day weekend, we encourage all residents and visitors to enjoy the holiday responsibly and safely. For those traveling on the roadways, please exercise caution and follow all traffic laws.

"The Manchester Police Department remains committed to serving and protecting the community, and we will continue to monitor the situation to ensure a secure and peaceful holiday weekend for all."