MORGANTOWN, W.Va.– The last time WVU played a home game thousands of people rioted in the streets following an upset over Baylor, costing the city of Morgantown over $45,000 in damages and others costs. Morgantown Police Chief Ed Preston said Thursday they’re taking steps to ensure that does not happen again.
“We’ve secured additional manpower. We have the assistance of the West Virginia State Police and they’re going to be assisting us in post-game throughout the weekend,” stated Preston.
Preston said they have also revamped their mutual aid and recall agreements with surrounding counties which will allow emergency personnel to calling in even more manpower if the situation arises. The additional officers will have a very visible presence out on the streets Saturday night after the game in an effort to deter any would be rioters from getting too rowdy. Equally important will be the officers that are not on the streets. Personnel have already been and will continue monitoring social media for any one trying to instigate violence.
“Social media will be constantly monitored by members of the West Virginia State Police who are very astute at this,” emphasized Preston.
Social media played a role in the Sept. 18 riots as large groups of people gathered and moved around the city forcing police to use tear gas to try to break up the crowds.
“Those people who are instigating will be held responsible for that as well,” Chief Preston said.
WVU President Gordon Gee sent out a letter to students earlier this week, asking students to be respectful and present the university is a positive way with a nationally televised game and ESPN College GameDay in town.
“As I have stated before, it’s time to take our University back, and this weekend will be a great opportunity for us to do so,” Gee wrote. “I hope that all of our students and fans understand that we take these situations very seriously, and we hope that we can continue to have a safe and friendly environment for Saturday’s game – with appropriate celebrations afterwards.
Weather may play a role in deterring any post-game parties from getting out of control. Temperatures are expected to top out in the 40s Saturday, with a chance of snow in the forecast.