San Diego boosts police presence in Gaslamp Quarter to curb nightly unrest

In response to a surge of late-night brawls and a steep increase in attacks on law-enforcement, San Diego officials launched “Operation Last Call,” dispatching an extra 25 officers to the Gaslamp Quarter. Police Chief Scott Wahl emphasized the goal of keeping the district safe for residents and tourists, while Mayor Todd Gloria voiced support for the initiative. The focus area, centered at Fifth and F streets in front of the Tacos El Gordo restaurant, often sees crowds of around 200 people after midnight.

Officers have employed pepper spray and bicycles to manage multiple fights, resulting in several arrests captured in a widely shared video. City data indicate a 172% rise in assaults on police over the last two years, prompting the intensified patrols. Local residents, including a woman who expressed safety concerns, welcomed the heightened police presence.