By Lt. Brian Williams
As we do each year, the South Lake Tahoe Police Department bolstered our patrol staffing to meet the emergency response needs of our crowded City during the Independence Day celebration.
There were squads of officers patrolling the beaches, assigned to traffic duties and extra officers assigned to work a variety of areas throughout the City. Although the City was quite full with holiday revelers, the number of calls for emergency police responses was fewer this year than during many past years.
Between 6 a.m. Thursday and 6 a.m. Friday, the South Lake Tahoe Police Department made seven arrests.
The majority of these were for drunk and disorderly conduct in public. One driver was arrested for DUI, and one person was arrested for misdemeanor domestic violence. Although the traffic was heavy throughout the City, and particularly congested after the fireworks display, the inconvenience posed to motorists was handled by most with patience and caution.
The police did not investigate any traffic collisions resulting in serious injuries. Although SLTPD responded to a number of complaints regarding fireworks, even these type of calls were fewer than in past years.
The 4th of July typically brings a family oriented celebration to our City. Locals and visitors alike are to be credited for the overall responsible way this holiday has been enjoyed. Even though this is a very busy holiday period for all local law enforcement agencies, the emergency responses from SLTPD this year have been lower thus far as compared to most years.
The weekend is now upon us and we anticipate many visitors will remain in our beautiful City to enjoy themselves for at least a few more days. We will continue to work with our allied agencies to help maintain a safe environment for locals and visitors alike. We would like to remind everyone that no fireworks of any nature are legal in the City of South Lake Tahoe specifically, or in the El Dorado County generally.