BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Crowds filled the streets of Fells Point for a glimpse of the tall ships taking part in the city’s Sail 250 celebration.
“This a better representation of what Baltimore can be,” said city resident Cliff Blackstone.
For the past two weeks, groups of teenagers have flooded the streets of Fells Point, with some peddling illegal alcohol and others “armed and loaded,” creating late-night violence that has taken a toll on struggling businesses.
“It’s cost us millions, and I’m not kidding when I say millions of dollars, having the roads blocked off,” said Ron Furman, owner of Max’s Taphouse. “It’s cost us millions of dollars from having the crime that’s been going on, and you know we can’t exist going forward like this.”
City officials rolled out a new plan aimed at controlling the crowds this weekend. Beginning at 9 p.m., the main roads coming into Fells Point will be closed. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and ID checks will be conducted at the entrances.
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“You’ll see a different plan this weekend on how to combat this,” said police commissioner Richard Worley.
“The presence is going to deter it yes but if there’s no crime and punishment what are you going to do?” asked Blackstone.
Among those in town for Fleet Week was Dave Vass, a retired naval officer from Florida, who said he packed pepper spray when he traveled to Baltimore this weekend.
“I had it in my pocket just in case. I don’t wanna hurt anybody but I don’t wanna get hurt either,” said Vass.
With hundreds of officers keeping watch — including state troopers, marine police, federal law enforcement and the Baltimore Police Department — the increased security presence was expected to help visitors feel more at ease.
“There’s the state troopers, the marine police, the feds are here, the Baltimore Police Department. So, if you came down here and caused any mayhem this weekend, I would pity you,” said Beth Hawks, owner of Zelda Zen.
Vass said he was in town for a Navy reunion.
“All my brothers from the same ship getting together after 40-some years….can’t beat it….” said Vass.
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