The Beverly Hills Police Department said that it would be on “full alert” beginning on Halloween and continuing through next week due to possible social unrest, connected to the election.
Officers will have backup from other law enforcement personnel and private security teams. Meanwhile, the city plans to shut down one of the most iconic streets lining its posh shopping district on Election Day.
In a video posted on the city’s social media platforms, Beverly Hills Police Chief Dominick Rivetti said luxury goods retailers “may choose to limit operations during this time.” He indicated Rodeo Drive would be closed on November 3 and the following day from Santa Monica Boulevard to Wilshire Boulevard, a stretch worldly renowned for its elegant fashion boutiques.
According to the Los Angeles Times, “the move came as City Hall encouraged some businesses to board up their high-end stores.” Looters and vandals targeted the vicinity in May when police used tear gas to disperse a crowd after declaring an unlawful assembly.
The problems stemmed from a series of demonstrations throughout L.A. County expressing outrage over the death of George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man who had died while in the custody of Minneapolis cops.
“As election day approaches, and with the potential of increased demonstrations and protest activity across the region, the city is taking a proactive approach to ensure a safe community for residents, businesses, and visitors,” Chief Rivetti said in the video.
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