Cape Girardeau enhances security measures after violent incident at SportsPlex

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — City officials have announced plans to enhance security measures at the Cape Girardeau SportsPlex following a violent incident at a youth basketball tournament on Sunday.

One person was charged with making a terroristic threat, a class D felony, after a fight broke out at the Reebok Basketball Tournament Series.

“The incident was traumatic for children and parents, and this behavior will not be tolerated in Cape Girardeau,” said Mayor Stacy Kinder.

Effective immediately, the city plans to:

— Use metal detectors at events as needed
— Increase police presence at large events on weekends
— Add security officers to large events
— Install more cameras, door alarms and locks at the SportsPlex
— Re-evaluate facility lockdown procedures

The coach involved in the incident has been banned from all city Parks & Recreation facilities, and the Reebok Basketball Tournament has banned the teams and coaches involved from future events.

“The city is committed to providing safe and secure facilities for residents and visitors,” Kinder said.