Fresno Police report only arresting approximately seven people during this year's Hmong International New Year Celebration. The event wrapped up this past week and attracted thousands of people each day. Now videos are surfacing online showing fights that broke out during the very popular celebration.
Numerous videos are posted on YouTube showing crowds running and punches thrown during the Hmong New Year celebration. One video captured the moment a Fresno Police Officer tried to arrest a young man for assaulting an officer. Then without a warning another unidentified subject kicks the detained man in the face. Both men were eventually taken into custody. The video alone has received more than 10-thousand views and counting. An organizer for the event said they can't prevent all fights.
Bee Vang said, "Some people may be looking for to fight other people in there but they don't just target anyone."
25-officers patrolled inside the fairgrounds during the eight day celebration. Private security also provided additional help. Fresno Police Sergeant Mark Hudson said the YouTube video distorts reality because this year they experienced no increased violence.
"Obviously that video is very disturbing and an officer was assaulted but you get a sense of something being more than it is. In comparison to previous years ... It was comparable to those other years as far an any police action we took."
Investigators plan to use the violent videos to help prosecute those who were fighting. At the same time- Hmong New Year organizers will review this year's event to learn if any changes need to be made for next year's celebration.
The police sergeant also told Action News anytime you gather thousands of people together ... fights are bound to happen.
Hmong Fresno New Year Fight 09 - 10
Fresno hmong new year 2010 fight
