NH State Police To Step Up Patrols After Hampton Beach Teen Melee

HAMPTON, NH — New Hampshire State Police as well as county and local police will be stepping up patrols on Hampton Beach after a melee on Thursday.

According to scanner chatter and news reports, Hampton police requested backup from Rockingham County sheriffs and New Hampshire State Police after a fight occurred on the beach and spilled over into Ocean Boulevard.

"They have about 500 people in the middle of the road fighting," a Rockingham County Public Safety dispatcher said at the time.

Not long after the alert, it was called off due to the crowd dispersing.

WCVB-TV reported Friday that the high-schoolers were mostly from Boston, Lawrence, and Worcester, and took a senior "skip day." Many, the report said, had already graduated. The beach outing was mostly peaceful but then, "issues developed," including music and alcohol. After that, some fights began to occur, according to Deputy Chief Alex Reno of the Hampton Police Department.

A number of people were arrested and more charges are expected.

State officials said Wednesday patrols would be expanded and more assistance will be given to the town to assist with law enforcement during the summer. The New Hampshire Department of Safety will be coordinating with local and county officials to ensure there is safety at the beach this summer.

"With the summer fast approaching and good weather expected, the New Hampshire State Police are committed to supporting our communities to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all residents and visitors to our great state," Col. Nathan Noyes of the state police said. "Troopers will continue to provide enhanced staffing to the town of Hampton and Hampton Beach throughout the summer. The safety and security of our residents and those that vacation in New Hampshire is our top priority."

Hampton Police Chief David Hobbs said the department was grateful for the assistance. According to Reno, there are staffing issues in the department.

Gov. Chris Sununu said his administration would remain in close contact with all involved to ensure safety.

"Hampton Beach is the jewel of New Hampshire’s seacoast, and we remain confident that it will be a successful and safe summer season," he said.

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