A News 5 hidden camera showed a beefed up security presence Wednesday night at the IX Center in Cleveland, four days after a series of fights erupted at the Indoor Amusement Park.
A park official refused a request for an on camera interview and would not allow a news camera inside the venue.
Officials promised enhanced security, including more patrols and stricter enforcement of the dress code after five people got arrested for fighting Saturday night. The park closed early as a result. Videos posted online showed mobs of people fighting, screaming and running.
On Wednesday, a hidden camera captured private security, Cleveland Police, County Sheriff’s deputies and even the gang unit, all visible, all throughout the venue inside and outside. Sheriff’s deputies and private security also patrolled the parking lot.
“The police: they’re not playing in there!” Julio Mercado said. “There was a lot of police officers everywhere. I felt like nothing could go down.”
"There were cops at every post,” Emily Coyle said. "Cops at every corner.”
But Coyle did notice one thing missing: the crowds. Our camera showed hardly any lines for any of the food, rides or games.
"I feel like a lot of people haven’t come back because of the incident, less people, less crowds, more security,” she said.
The park reopens Thursday at 11 a.m. and continues on and off through April 17th.
