Police To Increase Presence At Westfarms After Posts About Upcoming Takeover Saturday

Farmington police say they are going to have an elevated presence at Westfarms on Saturday after studying of social media posts selling a takeover at the mall on Saturday.

They can be working together with West Hartford police on the mall property and within the surrounding space, they mentioned in a information launch.

The social media posts say the takeover is deliberate for 1 pm on Saturday.

“These types of rapidly organized, social media-driven events have been observed locally and nationally and are often unpredictable in nature. Information can spread quickly across platforms, leading to sudden increases in anticipated attendance and limited ability to verify intent, scope, or coordination in advance,” Farmington police mentioned within the launch. “As a result, these gatherings may present public safety concerns due to the potential for large, unstructured crowds and possible disruptive or illegal behavior.”

The division says it should have a zero-tolerance coverage for illegal, disruptive, or harmful habits. They say they are going to make arrests if needed.

“The safety of all visitors to the WestFarms Mall remains the highest priority for the Farmington Police Department. Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to speak with their teens about the risks and consequences of attending unsanctioned, social media-driven gatherings,” police mentioned.

Anyone with data about doubtlessly disruptive exercise is requested to contact Farmington police at (860) 675-2400.