NCJ Number
100320
Date Published
1985
Length
105 pages
Annotation
This investigation examines police intelligence, planning, operations, and training as they may have contributed to a violent confrontation between police and an angry crowd in Livermore, Calif., on August 18, 1984.
Abstract
A publicized ''National Cruise Night,' a long tradition of cruising, publicity over a cruising ordinance debate, and good weather were factors contributing to a large crowd. The incident involved an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 people and 3,000 to 6,000 cars. It resulted in injury to 17 officers and vandalism and property damage. Interviews were conducted with police personnel, crowd members, and concerned citizens. Documentary data also were analyzed. Results indicate that the incident resulted from a lack of adequate intelligence, planning, and command by the police department administration. These inadequacies culminated in a rigid operational plan without fallback options or contingency arrangements for policing the event and its sequelae. While there was adequate departmental discipline, restraint, and field supervision, poor planning resulted in the police failing to use crowd control tactics taught during training. Finally, administrators failed to provide adequate dispersal routes and arrest and transport resources. Approximately 145 references.