ABSTRACT

This chapter presents a case study that illustrates what can go wrong when a large crowd of protestors turns violent quickly. If it is known that large numbers of demonstrators can be potentially violent, administrators need to make sure that adequate manpower is on hand, as well as resources that can be used for non-deadly force against protesters. The inability to call in sufficient manpower to handle a crowd that consists of thousands of protesters definitely presented a problem for the police. The case study demonstrates the danger of not having baggage properly screened for explosive devices, which can result in devastating consequences. Portable perimeter fences and temporary checkpoints could be installed at high profile events or at events with large numbers of people present, both of which are inviting targets for terrorist or criminal activity.