DISORDER IN THE COURTS? Neighbor says police are up there 'all the time'

Beginning this week the basketball court and playground will be closed daily from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. In addition, court lights will be turned off at 8 p.m. each night and the police presence in the area has been increased. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - A man who lives in view of the Hanson Pines basketball courts said police are there with their flashing blue lights on at least two or three times a week.
"They're up here all the time," he told The Rochester Voice on Wednesday.
The City of Rochester abruptly curtailed the hours of operation at the Hanson Pines basketball courts and playground due to recent unspecified incidents that threatened public safety, city officials said in a release on Wednesday.
According to officials, the decision was made in collaboration with the Rochester Rec & Arena and Rochester Police.
Beginning this week the basketball court and playground will be closed daily from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. In addition, court lights will be turned off at 8 p.m. each night and the police presence in the area has been increased.
A group of high school students hanging out at the courts on Wednesday told The Voice that yes, the police are frequently at the courts during the evening hours, but didn't exactly know why.
Meanwhile, Rochester Police did not respond Wednesday to questions from The Rochester Voice regarding what violations or crimes had prompted a police presence, but the city did specifically note in their release that "no smoking or vaping, and no inappropriate language, alcohol, or loitering," would be allowed.
The Recreation Department has indicated they will present an updated set of basketball court rules for approval at an upcoming Recreation & Arena Commission meeting.
For questions or concerns, contact the Recreation Department at (603) 332-4120 or visit rec.rochesternh.gov for more information.