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Aug 23, 2008 6:16 pm US/Eastern
Boston Police Arrest 56 In Sweep Before Festival
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
Boston police arrested dozens of suspected gang members and criminals in a pre-emptive strike against violence at the city's annual Caribbean Festival.
The sweep Friday by police gang and fugitive units picked up 56 people wanted on outstanding warrants, ranging from shoplifting to rape of a child.
Police say the suspects include those they think might have used the festival Saturday to find rivals and settle old scores.
They say the sweep was prompted by lessons from past festivals, which have been marred by shootings and stabbings.
Police say most attendees want to enjoy themselves at the 35-year-old festival, known for its colorful parade. They say they're targeting the minority who might cause problems.
"The crowd was not as big as it usually is but it was very peaceful, and I didn't see any rowdy behavior," said parade marcher Diana Peterkin. "I felt comfortable. I felt safe."
Festival organizers supported the sweep, saying they didn't want the festival to be ruined by a few criminals.
(© 2009 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
