Lt. K. Barnes works in the Bricktown area to keep the city clean, orderly and a safe place for all to enjoy. Despite the high numbers of entertainment seekers, the average arrests on a weekend for public intoxication or alcohol related incidents not including DUIs, is around five to six people.
“More than likely it’s something we’ve been called to or someone who is so obviously intoxicated they aren’t able to take care of themselves,” said Lt. Barnes.
On an average weekend there can be anywhere from 500 to 2000 people going to Bricktown purely for entertainment reasons. With 17 nightclubs and events constantly attracting people to the area, one to two arrests related to driving under the influence is a low number. The Bricktown area generally has six officers patrolling and through an overtime program funded by a grant, anywhere from six to ten more officer’s patrol depending on special events.
Lt. K. Barnes of the Oklahoma City Police Department |
Oklahoma City and Bricktown strive to keep the area a safe and unique place for all to enjoy. Through constant communication with local businesses, large events and other attractions, the police are able to maintain control.
“It’s a good two-way street, anything from the hot dog vendors to people who own the nicest restaurants, they are all willing to work with us so we are able to communicate and really get out what the city wants to happen…we’ve had good success with that,” said Lt. Barnes.
Visitors to Bricktown can rest assured that the area is safe to walk around and enjoy. It is an area that can provide all the fun and thrills of bigger cities while maintaining a clean image. The police department constantly evaluates what can be done better so that the public can enjoy themselves while being safe.
“We work really hard to make sure we don’t have that one bad incident,” said Lt. Barnes.
Lt. K. Barnes, father of four, celebrated his 18-year milestone in the police force Sept. 25th 2010. He spoke of his father who was a 20-year veteran and how that influenced him into becoming a police officer. “I went and rode with my dad… and it only took me experiencing a high speed chase once, and I was like, you get paid for this? I’m thinking I could do that,” said Lt. Barnes.
To see what is coming to downtown OKC Bricktown area check their website http://www.bricktownokc.com/.
Ana
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julie