Due to the recent tragedies that have occurred throughout the U.S. such as the Boston marathon bombings and the movie theater shooting in Wesley Chapel, many are concerned with the security measures that should be taken to keep the Gasparilla events safe for everyone involved.
With attendance around 300,000 for the main parade down Bayshore Boulevard, the Tampa Police Department was patrolling more than ever with officers placed along the parade route, as well as many on horseback surrounding the crowds. This does not include the police who were stationed at the Pirate Fest in Downtown that lasted until 11 p.m.
Liz Hadhazy, a sophomore allied health major, went to the Pirate Invasion parade already in full swing.
“I think security definitely did its job,” Hadhazy said. “Where I was, there were security horses that were so intimidating I don’t think anyone drunk or sober would want to provoke them.”
Before the main parade took place, Tampa Police Department Spokesperson Andrea Davis provided some information about the increased security that was going to take place.
“While there is no threat to Tampa or the Gasparilla parades, the Tampa Police Department is increasing security as a precautionary measure to ensure the public’s safety during the annual festivities,” Davis said.
According to Davis, in November 2013, members of the Massachusetts State Police briefed the Tampa Police Department on their response during the Boston bombings. From this workshop, parade commanders created a tabletop exercise to help train all Gasparilla partners including all local, state and federal agencies.
“The security was apparent,” said Cody Bray, sophomore and communication major. “I had the impression they were there simply to keep people safe, not to get anyone in trouble. I didn’t notice any instances of true danger. Overall, everything ran smoothly.”
According to the WTSP website, there were three felony arrests and 39 misdemeanors that took place last Saturday: the usual trouble that is caused by people under the influence. Even with the extra precautionary measures taken, some still felt like much of the chaos could have been monitored better.
“I think where they lacked security the most were the roads near the parade. I felt like there should have been police or some safety people for those who were so drunk when they wobbled pass you,” Hadhazy said. “I was worried they wouldn’t make it back to their homes.”
However, there were no serious injuries and no suspicious activities reported besides an unidentified, misplaced drink cooler.
“Security measures were effective,” said Major Michael Baumaister with the Tampa Police Department. “The extra patrols and cameras along the route allowed them to be on top of any suspicious situation.”
There is still another Gasparilla event that is scheduled to take place in the following week, which many locals will attend. The Knights of Sant’Yago Parade takes place Feb. 8 in Ybor City, presented by the same “Ye Mystic Krewe” who is in charge of the main Gasparilla parade.
While many believe that security was on top of things, there are still circumstances that can get out of control. Remember to stay with your friends and to not provoke security with any illegal activities.