Lexington police enforcement around downtown nightspots doesn’t vary depending upon the hour of the day. That’s according to Sergeant Guy Miller. Last week, Lexington Downtown Management District Board Chair Jim Frazier spoke of a higher number of disturbances after midnight in his report to the City Council.
Sergeant Miller said the scene after bars close can vary greatly.
“Because I’ve interacted with people and had a great conversation with them. They got their Uber and went safely home. And then I’ve had conversations when they were under the influence of whatever drug, and for whatever reason, they were just more aggressive that night,” said Miller.
Miller said if you see the demeanor of people changing, reach out to police either in person or with a phone. The police sergeant noted sometimes just the appearance of an officer or police car can deter any physical conflict.
Miller added enforcement actions remain consistent.
“We may staff differently for those occasions but policing itself and how we approach people does not change,” explained Miller.
Miller said officers on bicycles patrol the downtown area in early morning hours. He noted overtime is currently being offered with the police department short by about a hundred officers. Miller added it’s not practical to have officers on every corner, nor is that preferred. The officer said community trust in contacting the police is important.
