NCJ Number
86099
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 49 Issue: 10 and 11 Dated: (November 1982) Pages: 69-73,60-62
Date Published
1982
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article describes the preparatory efforts of the Knoxville Police Department (Tennessee) to provide adequate security and law enforcement coverage for the 1982 World's Fair in Knoxville.
Abstract
The department emphasized detection of counterfeit currency, analysis of traffic and pedestrian movement, and training of special reaction teams by air, water, and land. The need for special preparation was underscored by the anticipated visit of 60 million people to the World's Fair, including the President and numerous foreign and national dignitaries. Visits and studies were made of previous fair sites. In addition, incidents of assault, public drunkenness, fights, accidents, auto theft, and others were analyzed for the period 1980-81 to measure local impact. Preplanning steps consisted of resource and aerial analyses, equipment inventory, and personnel assesment. The FBI conducted a disaster planning seminar in Knoxville to supplement local strategies. A financial impact study was conducted, focusing on traffic control, site security, special support service costs, command center expenses, and training costs. Special city ordinances and laws were prepared to assist law enforcement with the anticipated high volume of visitors. Particular emphasis was given to areas requiring unique police department response, such as in temporary vehicle impoundment. The article identifies the local, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies responsible for security at the fair, and defines each agency's functions and responsibilities. It examines specific security provisions undertaken, including security guard training and selection. Some crime statistics are included.