Multiple people were arrested after Cincinnati police reported large groups creating “disorder and violence” during Opening Day.
Crews were present at Great American Ball Park when Cincinnati police and SWAT teams began clearing The Banks shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, directing crowds back toward the city.
“This is your official warning … it is time to go home,” a voice announced over a loudspeaker.
Watch: Video shows large crowds fighting at The Banks
Multiple people arrested in Cincinnati amid Reds Opening Day disorder and violence
Officers blocked the intersection of E. Freedom Way and Marian Spencer Way near the Yard House restaurant, instructing people not to cross and to take alternate routes.
Throughout the day, crews observed officers moving quickly between multiple downtown locations.
In one case, officers reported that around 20 juveniles were involved in a fight at Washington Park. In another, a large group ran through The Banks during the Reds game.
“We had multiple calls of large crowds … where there was quite a bit of disorder and violence,” said CPD Interim Chief Adam Hennie. “As officers were trying to respond to those areas, they faced significant resistance.”
Hennie added that there were reports of individuals using tasers or chemical irritants against others.
FOP President Ken Kober described the situation as “absolute chaos.”
“Just mass hysteria, chaos,” Kober said. “What should have been a fantastic day, beautiful weather in Cincinnati, you know, Major League Baseball back in Cincinnati, was completely overshadowed by juveniles causing chaos.”
He said police had to recall off-duty SWAT officers and members of the Civil Disturbance Response Team to help manage the situation.
Hennie confirmed that multiple arrests were made but did not provide an exact number. He said police use of force appeared to be minimal and that no officers were injured.
WCPO has requested further details regarding the incidents and arrests.
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