Milford is deploying new beach management protocols in response to overcrowding and unruly behavior at Walnut Beach after several large fights broke out on Memorial Day.
Effective immediately, additional parking restrictions will be in place for the Walnut Beach lots, a strengthened infrastructure around the beach perimeter (limiting the entrances to ensure better, safer monitoring for users arriving/exiting) will be installed and new personnel assignments will be employed.
In addition, Milford’s police department will be closely tracking social media announcements promoting unauthorized, unpermitted events, and those who organize or participate in illicit activities will be prosecuted.
The fights occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Memorial Day. Police said they had a community policing van at the beach in anticipation of holiday crowds, but that the officers who were at the beach when the fights occurred were overwhelmed.
“Milford’s coastline is our community’s most treasured asset and the city will do whatever it takes to ensure our beaches remain a safe recreational resource for families to enjoy,” the city said in a press release.