Significant Events Avoided at Mongols Rally

Motorcycle Club Rally Concludes Without Significant Incidents in Cathedral City

CATHEDRAL CITY – The Cathedral City Police Department, with assistance from numerous allied law enforcement agencies, successfully concluded a weekend public safety operation associated with the Mongols Motorcycle Club rally, which drew approximately 1,500 attendees to the area.

Any police who can say that must be incredibly proud.

On Saturday, during the operational period from about 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., officers made five, that included weapon offenses. Three handguns were seized during this day’s enforcement efforts. Officers issued 35 citations, and nine vehicles were stored and/or impounded.

On Friday, Sept. 18, Cathedral City Police, along with allied agencies, conducted high-visibility enforcement throughout the city and surrounding jurisdictions.

During the operational period from about 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., officers made 15 arrests. The arrests involved narcotics violations, possession of stolen property, and driving on suspended licenses and warrants Commander Jon Enos. said in a news release.

Of the 15 arrests, three involved weapons violations, and three handguns were recovered, Enos wrote.  Officers issued 42 citations, and five vehicles were stored and/or impounded.

All incidents took place at multiple locations throughout the valley, according to Commander John Enos.

The weekend concluded without any significant incidents, and relatively few enforcement-related issues were reported considering the size of the event. Final enforcement statistics are still being compiled and will be released when available.

The Cathedral City Police Department’s primary objective throughout the weekend was to maintain public safety, provide a visible law enforcement presence, and ensure sufficient resources were immediately available should a significant incident occur.

“When an event brings approximately 1,500 people into our community, it is our responsibility to plan appropriately and ensure we have the resources necessary to protect our residents, businesses, visitors, and those attending the event,” said Cathedral City Police Chief Rick Sanchez. “The increased law enforcement presence was about preparedness and prevention. Our goal was not to create confrontation -it was to prevent it.”

The additional law enforcement resources were also intended to help protect those attending the rally. Large motorcycle gatherings can potentially attract individuals or members of other motorcycle clubs where conflicts may exist. Having adequate personnel already in the area allows law enforcement to respond quickly to potential problems and can help deter incidents before they occur.