Police have been preparing this week for a possible “Downtown takeover” less than a week after a brawl at Market Square.
Planning started as soon as one of the department's crime analysts spotted a flyer on social media are calling for a takeover.
The takeover, if it takes place, would mean a large number of teens around Downtown Pittsburgh.
Police Chief Jason Lando talked about it with KDKA's Marty Griffin.
“Whenever we are made aware of a potentially larger-scale event, we want to make sure that we bring in adequate resources to address whatever problems might occur,” said Chief Lando.
The time and location of any takeover is unclear. Chief Lando said on-duty officers are being moved from other areas in the city for what he calls an "adequate presence Downtown tonight. Lando also said he's confident the Bureau of Police is prepared.
Lando adds they aren’t sure if anything will happen, but they are ready either way.
Pittsburgh Public Schools released a statement, that said, in part:
“We ask that you speak with your child about making safe, responsible choices and avoiding unsupervised gatherings such as this one. Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students safe.”
The “Downtown Takeover” is reportedly part of a social media movement that has been attempted in other cities.
