OC cities move to deter social media-driven takeover parties

Orange County cities are increasing police patrols, investigations and enforcement aimed at stopping social media-driven takeover parties after Fourth of July chaos in Newport Beach, according to Voice of OC.

The response has local significance across coastal and inland OC communities, where police and city officials are trying to prevent large unsanctioned gatherings from overwhelming public spaces and spilling into businesses and neighborhoods.

Huntington Beach police said a planned end-of-summer beach bash is under investigation and that officers intend to stop it before it happens, Voice of OC reported. The department also assisted Newport Beach during the July 4 takeover after Newport officials declared a police emergency.

The Newport Beach gathering led to more than 400 arrests, street fights and the looting of a Pavilions store, according to Voice of OC. Huntington Beach police said similar events can escalate rapidly when promoted online.

"We have seen firsthand how quickly these events can grow, overwhelm public spaces, block emergency access and place community members and first responders at risk," the Huntington Beach Police Department said in an Instagram post cited by Voice of OC.

"Our goal is simple: prevent criminal activity before it starts and keep Huntington Beach safe for our residents, visitors, and businesses," the Huntington Beach Police Department said in the post.

Jessica Cuchilla, Huntington Beach public information officer, said the city is monitoring social media, assigning additional staffing and working with regional agencies. "Takeovers or bashes affect the city negatively because of the potential for criminal activity to include vandalism, theft, assault and battery, and other serious criminal activity," Cuchilla told Voice of OC.

Buena Park police said they were aware of an unsanctioned event being organized at Knott’s Berry Farm and increased police presence there, Voice of OC reported. The park’s chaperone policy requires guests 15 or younger to be with someone 21 or older after 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and after 1 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Other OC cities are also turning to local rules: Placentia recently added short-term rental regulations, and Brea increased fines for violations from $100 to $1,500 for a first offense and from $200 to $3,000 for a second offense, according to Voice of OC.