The Milwaukee teen told police he and other African-American juveniles beat up white people because they were "easy targets," according to West Allis police. He also said he "was going along with the crowd" in the robberies that happened after the midway closed last Thursday.
The teen was booked on suspicion of attempted robbery and robbery. Police recommend that he face additional penalties for hate crimes.
Despite the ugly start, the State Fair is having a good year. Organizers don't release early attendance numbers but sources tell TODAY'S TMJ4 attendance is up 40,000 over last year.
"She loves the fair, she comes every year," said Adam Kasinskas.
But Adam and his wife Amanda haven't attended the fair this year until Thursday.
When asked if she had any reservations about attending this year Amanda said, "A little bit, I was actually a little nervous about coming."
That's because a week ago large groups of African American kids attacked white people leaving the fair.
So far, West Allis Police arrested a 16-year-old for robbery. He has not been charged yet but faces hate-crime penalties as well.
"We did have the situation Thursday night, we reacted quickly and we've taken care of that situation," said John Yingling, chairman of the Wisconsin State Fair Board." I am very pleased."
This is John Yingling's first year as chairman. While he's happy with the results so far, he wants to review everything including security for next year.
"We can certainly work more closely with the sheriff, with the City of Milwaukee, the City of West Allis and continue to work together to make sure we move forward and have great fairs," said Yingling.
It's already been a great fair for Rupena's.
"It's probably been a record fair. We won't know until it's over but for us it will be very good," said Matthew Rupena
And with the extra security, Amanda feels it should be a good night.
No comments:
Post a Comment