[ back ]
City aims to prevent future fights at Homecoming events
(by Andrea Cordle, Southwest Editor - August 05, 2010)
City leaders do not want a repeat of the fight that happened at this year's Homecoming softball tournament.
City staff has been meeting with the tournament sponsors to ensure the actions do not occur again.
According to a police report by the Grove City Division of Police, a fight broke out after the softball game between the Grove City High School graduating classes of 2003 and 2007. The disturbance happened at Fryer Park on July 25.
When officers first arrived on scene, they were advised that approximately 70 people were involved in the fight. According to the report, the incident started with a verbal argument between three individuals. The verbal argument led to a physical fight. One man said while he was on the ground after being punched in the face, he was kicked in the head area by numerous unknown people.
Officers interviewed many witnesses, but none would provide the department with a written statement. All the parties involved were treated on the scene by Jackson Township medics. All of them refused to go to the hospital.
The three individuals involved in the initial fight were referred to the Grove City prosecutor. The report alleged all three men had been drinking throughout the day.
Councilman Steven Bennett said empty beer cases were found in the dugouts.
"The alcohol was smuggled in illegally," alleged Bennett. "That can't continue."
Prior to the Homecoming events, council waived regular code provisions to allow the Sertoma Club and the Grove City Kids Association to sell alcohol at the events. The proceeds go towards charities.
Participants are only supposed to purchase the alcohol from the designated vendors. They are not allowed to bring in their own alcoholic beverages.
Police Chief Joseph Wise said he was against the city waiving any ordinance, but said his department would handle what council allowed.
Council president Ted Berry thanked the police department for its efforts.
"All in all, the Homecoming was a great event," said Berry.
Grove City Mayor Richard "Ike" Stage said 96 teams participated in the softball tournament. He also said hotels and restaurants were packed all weekend.
There was one other incident at the Homecoming involving a 21-year-old man providing alcohol to a 19-year-old woman.
[ back ]
