Security Tightened for July Fourth in Charlotte

Leaders in Charlotte are making plans to ensure the city’s Fourth of July celebration doesn’t wind up with fistfights and gang scuffles like those that left one person dead on Memorial Day.

The Charlotte Observer reported Thursday that stepped-up crowd-control tactics will be used during holiday activities, including a strong police presence and surveillance measures.

Mayor Anthony Foxx says the city’s 11 p.m. curfew will be enforced for children under 16 not accompanied by an adult. Foxx says businesses near the problem areas for Memorial Day’ will close early to discourage loitering.

{snip}

Officials say Charlotte needs to demonstrate it can handle large events uptown to reassure Democrats planning to stage their national convention in the city next year.