By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post
Hays residents will once again see an increased police presence this weekend with Oktoberfest celebrations beginning Friday and Fort Hays State Homecoming on Saturday.
Because of the increased of number of people who return to Hays for this weekend, the Hays Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies are stepping enforcement.
Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said officers understand that it is a big weekend for the community, adding patrols will be on hand to help keep people safe. He added they are stressing that people limit their alcohol consumption.
“We see a lot of these crimes being committed — batteries, assaults, sexual assaults — all occurring when the parties that are involved are highly intoxicated,” Scheibler said, “If they limit their intake, it will be much safer for everyone else.”
During the busy weekend, the police department will get assistance from the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, FHSU Police, Alcoholic Beverage Control and Union Pacific Police Department.
There will be an increase in bike patrols, vehicle patrols and saturation patrols throughout the weekend.
Scheibler said it is important to remember that Hays has an open container ordinance, making it illegal to carry an open container on public sidewalks, streets and alleys. With the Oktoberfest celebration moving to the north side of Municipal Park, it could be easy for people to forget they have an open container and leave the park.
Oktoberfest goers “need to stay in the park with open containers throughout the day,” he said.
The department says it is best to have a plan before you start drinking and make sure you have a designated driver or use SafeRide.
Scheibler said with the increase number of people and the amount of alcohol involved, the police department is there to keep people safe and serve as a deterrent.
Law enforcement officials will not tolerate any violence, Scheibler said, noting anyone taking part in or threatening violence will face arrest.
The department is calling on people use good judgement and be polite, courteous and respectful to everyone and everybody will have a good weekend.