WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Winston-Salem police shut down unsanctioned parties for high school–aged students Wednesday night during spring break, citing safety hazards and violations of city park rules, Chief William H. Penn Jr. said.
Officers first intercepted gatherings in city parks after flyers promoting the events circulated publicly. When the juveniles moved downtown to public spaces, including business parking lots, officers responded to numerous calls about trespassing, fights, loud music, alcohol consumption, reckless scooter driving, and pedestrians blocking traffic.
Crowds of 100 to 200 juveniles remained until about 1:30 a.m., requiring officers to pull resources from other parts of the city to maintain order…