Police in Burbank Saturday renewed a warning that they will be out in force at the Burbank Empire Center on Tuesday, after becoming aware of a planned flash mob at the Krispy Kreme doughnut store.
“The Burbank Police Department will always respect and recognize the rights of individuals to peacefully and lawfully assemble,” according to a police statement.
“We also respect and recognize the need for area residents and businesses to safely utilize city streets and services.”
Mass gatherings like the one planned can create a public nuisance, disturb the peace and adversely impact the safe and efficient flow of traffic, police said.
“To that end, the Burbank Police Department will be fully deployed in the area to enforce all applicable laws, including those involving illegal engine/vehicle modifications,” according to the police statement.
Signs have been posted at the Krispy Kreme store announce that the business will close at 4 p.m. on Tuesday.
A flash mob at the center on Aug. 13, 2013, drew as many as 3,500 people and 1,100 cars. While no arrests were made officers did issue more than 100 citations for motor vehicle code and moving violations, police said.
A similar event held in November, 2012 largely caught police by surprise.
—City News Service