Fresno Police focus on Downtown security ahead of big events

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Police are getting creative and setting big goals as some big events will soon be held in Downtown Fresno.

Thousands of people will be flocking to Downtown Fresno over the next few weeks. Last year's Mexican League exhibition match played in front of a sold out and standing room only crowd. It's a scene that's expected to be re-created this year with different teams, but the same excitement filling the streets.

"The soccer match that's something that everyone should come see. You think people are enthusiastic about American football or baseball? Nothing compares to the enthusiasm of a soccer crowd," said Craig Scharton, Fulton Mall Manager.

In fact, the Downtown Fresno partnership is already fielding phone calls from all over the state about this year's match. "We're working with our businesses so they know when the events are coming so they stay open at night and they're full and lively and fun -- and people in town will have a great experience and it continues to build," said Scharton.

A good experience is what Fresno Police are already talking about. They are expecting more than 15 thousand people to flood downtown for the July 10th match, as thousands of tickets have already sold.

"Our goal is to not have one single vehicle broken into or stolen during these events," said Jerry Dyer, Fresno Police Chief.

Chief Dyer and the top brass of the Fresno Police Department are also talking about the Ms. California Pageant which will be at the Saroyan Theatre in two weeks. Both event- bear the same goal for Fresno Police -- causing officers to get creative about the way in which they flood the downtown area with a police presence.

"We're going to draw a circle around a geographical area, make sure we have the security measures in place," said Dyer.

The right security, the right kind of crowd, and the right kind of energy to continue bringing big business to an area that needs it.