News Release

April 28, 2010
News Release Contact:
Philip Bogenberger - (804) 219-2022
E-mail: pubrel@abc.virginia.gov

Virginia ABC Nets 69 Arrests During "Operation Don't Panic"

Highlights

• "Operation Don’t Panic" results in 69 arrests.
• The operation coincides with two days of concerts by Widespread Panic.
• ABC special agents stop fleeing vehicle and driver receives five charges, including a drug charge and felony hit and run.

RICHMOND – Special agents of the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) made 69 arrests as part of "Operation Don't Panic." The two-day operation coincided with two concerts, April 26 and 27, by the band Widespread Panic at The National located at 708 E. Broad St.

During one incident on April 27, ABC agents noticed a vehicle driving recklessly in a parking garage and the driver appeared to be inhaling a substance from a balloon. As agents identified themselves and attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver attempted to flee. The vehicle was eventually stopped and the driver was charged with inhaling a noxious chemical, reckless driving, assault and battery, malicious wounding and felony hit and run. One agent received a minor injury to his hand during the incident.

"The purpose of the operation was to provide enhanced public safety for the downtown area particularly in and around the venue," ABC Bureau of Law Enforcement Director Frank Monahan said.

"Operation Don't Panic" extended to Shockoe Bottom as one of the areas where ABC agents monitored activities. No arrests were made in Shockoe Bottom.

The other arrests included violations for underage possession of alcohol, drinking in public, possession of ecstasy and possession of marijuana. The majority of arrests occurred in areas adjacent to the venue.