CLEVELAND — With tourism officials predicting 200,000 visitors will be in Cleveland from Friday through Monday, you can expect to see an increased police presence as the city prepares for big events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four, the April 8 solar eclipse and the Guardians home opener.
3News’ Lynna Lai reported Wednesday that the city and county have partnered with the FBI, U.S. Marshals and Homeland Security to beef up security throughout the days ahead.
“We do have officers that are working in plain clothes that are out there monitoring as well,” explained Sgt. Wilfredo Diaz with the Cleveland Division of Police. “We will have that throughout the weekend as well. Even though you may or may not see them physically in uniform, there is officer presence that’s going to be out there.”
The increased safety comes amid concerns after a shooting late Tuesday night downtown near the JACK Cleveland Casino in which a 43-year-old man was taken to the hospital. Police said the suspect in the shooting was quickly arrested.
Cleveland City Councilmember Mike Polensek said policing starts with visibility and traffic enforcement.
“It’s not about arresting people after the fact, it’s about preventing crime from happening,” he said.