Hartford police are working with the Xfinity Theatre to step up patrols in an effort to combat underage drinking.
Police met with theater staff Tuesday afternoon to discuss the issue.
"Xfinity Theater expressed their open concern and willingness to help prevent underage drinking and improve everyone’s safety," wrote Hartford Police Deputy Chief Brian Foley in an emailed statement. "We mutually agreed on increased enforcement coverage as well as other measures to improve safety. We will continue to work through those details as the next events approach."
Last Friday more than 90 people were taken to the hospital during a Chance the Rapper concert. Many of them were severely intoxicated.
Friday’s crowd was mostly fans in their late teens and early 20s and there was a great deal of tailgating, partying and heavy drinking, police said. Many of the medical transports were for underage drinkers who suffered severe intoxication. Police made 50 underage drinking referrals at the event.
In a statement, officials from ambulance service American Medical Response told NBC Connecticut that they’ve never seen that level of transports in the 21 years they’ve worked with the venue.
Police say 75 officers were assigned to the performance. Costs were covered by the venue and a state grant.
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It is unclear how many additional officers will be present at future concerts.
Police remind parents to be aware of the atmosphere at concerts so that parents and children can talk about making responsible decisions.
