INDIANAPOLIS — As the road to the Final Four returns to the Crossroads of America, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is working with local and federal partners to ensure the event is safe.
"If we do our job right, you won't really notice that much of a big difference ... you'll see an officer's presence, but we have to make sure it's inviting," Commander Brian Mahone said. "I think we do large events like this better than anybody else in the country."
Last year, the entire March Madness tournament was held in Indiana due to the pandemic. This year, first and second round games will be played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 17 and 19.
Extra security measures will be in place at Gainbridge and downtown.
With lots of construction underway downtown, Mahone asks fans to leave early, be patient and have a plan on where to park.
"We're an event-type city ... having the first and second rounds ... we're kind of prepared for that," Mahone said. "We have excellent men and women in the public safety realm ... it's a challenge we're prepared to meet and we train for."
-
New efforts may identify all victims of Indiana serial killer Herbert Baumeister
A renewed effort is underway to identify the victims found on the property of suspected Indiana serial killer Herbert Baumeister's property.Tow company concerned about impact of bill aimed at protecting driver data
A tow company is concerned about legislation that would allow drivers to opt out of the state selling their data to 3rd parties.Gallery Pastry Shop announces closure of its final location in Indianapolis
After nearly 12 sweet years of delighting customers with artisanal pastries, Gallery Pastry Shop is set to close its doors for the last time.Fire destroys two businesses, claims lives of 1 dog and 5 puppies on east side
The fire led to the destruction of two businesses: El Palomar Auto Body Repair and Granite Customs. Tragically, one dog and five puppies died in the incident.