Local merchants and property owners in Poplar Bluff have reported to authorities challenges with juveniles and young adults congregating in parking lots, resulting in disruptions to businesses, property damage and littering. In response, property owners have erected ‘no loitering / no trespassing signs’ and sought assistance from the police department for enforcement, according to a press release from the Poplar Bluff Police Department.
The PBPD reports they have, in recent months, observed a surge in criminal activities occurring during these gatherings, including felony assaults, weapon offenses, thefts and reckless driving. They have released a statement saying these incidents now pose a significant physical threat to the community, particularly to those involved in these groups.
To address this trend, the PBPD has implemented proactive measures, they report. Officers have increased patrols in affected areas and have begun issuing warnings to individuals found loitering or “hanging out” on marked properties. Moving forward, the department plans to escalate enforcement by issuing criminal summonses, summoning parents to the scene and potentially arresting repeat offenders.
The department urges parents, juveniles and young adults to avoid accessing private parking lots and properties marked with ‘NO TRESPASSING’ signs and to abstain from participating in large gatherings.
According to Friday’s press release, when approached by officers, members of a group are advised to “remain in place” and comply with commands.
“If we have to chase a vehicle the occupants will likely be arrested, and their vehicle impounded,” the police department said.
Capt. David Sutton stated he is available to address any questions or concerns from the community regarding these developments.
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