Lexington Police will have new tool for NCAA crowd control this year

LEXINGTON, Ky (WTVQ)- Police in Lexington are hoping for rain Friday as the Cats take UCLA in the Sweet Sixteen.

That is because it could deter people at home from celebrating a potential win too chaotically, or a loss destructively.

In 2012 when UK won the championship, chaos turned to mayhem as 15,000 revelers took to the streets. Then, at least one person was shot and dozens were arrested.

Lexington fire officials say they put out more than 40 fires, including a car, several mattresses, couches, and piles of garbage.

That is why police are talking about tournament safety Monday. UK and Lexington police leaders say they are all for celebrating, but they will not tolerate criminal behavior.

As opposed to past years, Lexington police now have body cameras. UK police have over 3,000 cameras of their own around campus.

Both agencies say they will be able to review footage and use it as evidence to prosecute anyone who commits a crime.

“Be responsible. Be a respectful citizen of the community and treat it with respect. Don’t trash the neighborhoods. Don’t turn over cars. Don’t burn anything. Let’s have a good time and celebrate responsibly,” UK Police Chief Joe Monroe said.

Monroe says he will have a large number of officers out working Friday night, including himself.