MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Grizzlies were back on the court Monday night, bringing big crowds and energy to Downtown Memphis. The team faced the Detroit Pistons in their first preseason matchup at FedExForum.
However, as fans filled the streets, a federal task force was keeping watch.
FOX13 spoke with fans and tourists on Beale Street, and views on the task force were mixed. Some said the federal task force gave them a sense of security, while others felt it was intimidating or didn’t really address safety concerns.
RELATED: Has crime dropped in Memphis since arrival of federal reinforcements?
This first preseason game was the second major event Downtown since the federal task force arrived. days earlier, “Wine on the River” filled Tom Lee Park. Agents have been patrolling the area during these large gatherings, making their presence known at they continue efforts to curb crime and keep events safe.
Jerred Price with the Downtown Neighborhood Association said local business owners appreciate the added security and feel it helps create a safer environment for everyone.
“We want you to come to Downtown. We want you to have a good time,” Price said, “But if you come down here and drag race, acting a fool, hanging out of windows and putting visitors in harm’s way, you will be pulled over, you will be arrested and taken out of our community.”
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