Unaccompanied Minors Policy put in place after fights at Finlay Park

CITY OF COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Monday afternoon, June 22, Columbia Police and City of Columbia officials updated the response to fights that took place at Saturday’s Juneteenth celebration.

Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook says one adult was arrested and several juveniles identified who took part in the unrest.

Investigators add that ammunition was found in the park’s playground area however a weapon was never found.

Holbrook says 39 CPD officers and six USC police officers responded to the unrest.

No major injuries were reported.

READ MORE: Following fights, City of Columbia announces “Permanent Unaccompanied Minor Policy” for Finlay Park

Chief Holbrook says Finlay Park is a center piece of the city and will continue to be so in the future.

During a press conference on Monday, City Manager Teresa Wilson said June the new policy will be put in place 7 days a week.

City officials also gave out resources during the press conference for the youth to help keep them out of trouble.

Today, Jamal Bradley founder and CEO of the Juneteenth Freedom Fest released a statement:

“We will not allow the actions of a few people to define the thousands who came in peace, celebrated responsibly, and represented our community well. We will conduct a full after action review with public safety partners, strengthen our event safety planning, and continue building youth and community programming that creates positive spaces for learning, leadership, culture, and connection.”