Five Shot At Club Party

There have been many incidents of violence at private clubs in Bridgeport over the past several years. Many of these “Sweet Sixteen” parties (et al.) are (more often than not) a subspecies of “rave” parties organized by alcohol-drug-entertainment entrepreneurs who make thousands of untaxable, untraceable dollars by renting private venues under false pretenses. There is no doubt the organizations owning these facilities are often aware of such situations. It can be safely assumed individuals responsible for administering the facilities and overseeing rentals are often also pocketing some of the proceeds under various administrative auspices. But what must be remembered is these and other types of private “parties” is a cottage industry that caters to illegal drug and alcohol use in ways that court disaster for attendees as well as those residing in neighborhoods and businesses in proximity to the facilities. These “parties” present definite dangers to the community (e.g., gun violence, DWI, etc.), which indicate–demand–much more attention from city government and law enforcement, by way of ORDINANCE, MONITORING AND POLICING. Many such “parties” can be observed throughout Bridgeport on any given evening, but especially, of course, on weekends. Problematic “parties” are often predictable, recurring events at certain private clubs and residential addresses. It is the responsibility of BPD to monitor these situations and be on the lookout for additional locations. They have the means (video surveillance cameras, Block Watch observation). This is very basic police work. And City Hall needs to enforce appropriate ordinances and create and enforce new ordinances, as indicated. Fines and legal action must be pursued by the City as indicated.