Police Reserve Right to Search Backpacks at Rockin' on the River Events

Rockin' on the River kicks off May 24 this year and just like in past years, there will be a police presence at the well-attended free outdoor concert event on Fridays. 

In light of the recent bombing in Boston, police officers are on higher alert at events with large crowds. 

Police Chief Tom Pozza said that backpacks are and have always been subject to search.

"My department is just going to be more diligent about checking and asking people to secure them in their cars or leave them at home. In light of the recent world events, I think this will make people feel safer," Pozza said.

Also, don't forget that the curfew passed in 2011 still remains in effect. 

The area between Oakwood Avenue and Broad Boulevard, along the Riverfront Mall and boardwalk is a restricted area, where unsupervised children will not be permitted between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. 

Parents or guardians of juveniles cited for violating the curfew could face a fine of $50. If parents or guardians do not retrieve the youths at the police station within three hours, offenders could be placed in juvenile detention facilities.

City officials said they saw a "huge" decline in violations after the curfew was put in place. 

To see the full lineup this summer, visit the Rockin' on the River website.