Tag Archives: gasparilla parade

Gasparilla Parade Arrests

Posted on January 25, 2013 by Blick Law

Tampa’s annual Gasparilla parade returns this weekend! As most Tampa natives know, the Gasparilla parade celebration brings the entire community together in an all day festival inspired by the legend of Jose Gaspar. The main parade attracts upwards of 300,000 people each year; and as most people know, the festivities surrounding the event lead many to get carried away with their celebrations. According to reports from prior Gasparilla parades, hundreds of arrests are made each year for open container violations; numerous citations are issued for various civil infractions and dozens of people are arrested for other alcohol related criminal offenses, especially Disorderly Conduct, DUI, Boating Under the Influence, and Underage Drinking.

It is important to be responsible and avoid potential arrests during and after the Gasparilla festivities. Make your arrangements ahead of time to get home safely, and ensure the safety of others. Additionally, the City of Tampa recommends you:

  • Plan your day in Advance – Save time by planning where you will park and the route you plan to take.
  • Pick a meeting place – Select a spot where others in your party will know to return in the event you get separated.
  • Know the “Wet Zones” – The parade route allows participants to drink alcohol openly, but only from vendors selling along the route. No coolers, kegs or open containers are allowed elsewhere on the streets; and absolutely no glass containers.

In the event you are arrested during the Gasparilla parade, it is important to quickly consult a Criminal Attorney regarding your rights and advice on what you should do. Call Blick Law Firm immediately at (813) 931-0840 to schedule an appointment for a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick!

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Tampa Bay Gasparilla Parade 2012

Posted on January 27, 2012 by Blick Law Firm

TAMPA- On Saturday, Tampa Bay will be invaded by pirates celebrating Gasparilla Parade 2012. Since 1904, this tradition has lived on and is known for its lively Tampa Bay celebration of what happened in history over 100 years ago.

What is the Gasparilla Parade? According to 10 News, legend has it that back in 1904 pirates with Ye Mystic Krewe (YMK) of Gasparilla invaded Tampa Bay. Jose Gaspar, aristocrat turned pirate led YMK to plunder a total of 36 ships along Florida’s West Coast during the end of the 18th century and early 19th century.

And the tradition lives on.

What was once an invasion on horse back and borrowed boats by 50 Tampa residents is now a well-known tradition that we have come to admire today with over 300,000 expected participants. Every year the celebration seems to unfold to greater heights, as does the risks in being involved.

Zero Tolerance Policy. The City of Tampa for the past few years has enforced rules and regulations to ensure a safer environment for Tampa Bay.

Some safety tips to remember:

1. Alcohol violations. Open containers such as a cups, cans or bottles that contain any alcohol are subject for violation. If you are of the legal drinking age, you are allowed to consume alcohol. However, you must remain in the designated alcohol drinking areas to do so. Any drinking consumed outside the boundaries result in violation of the city’s Zero Tolerance Policy.

2. Disruptive Behavior such as urinating in public, nudity, fighting, trespassing on property, or property damage all are in violation of Tampa’s Zero Tolerance Policy and may lead to arrest.

3. Underage drinking. There is zero, zero tolerance for underage drinking. Police officers scout the parade, looking for those consuming alcohol under age. This has been a major issue over the years and is strictly enforced.

Safety is very important for you and your loved one. Be sure to take the proper precautions and stay out of trouble. Arrests lead to many issues such as court dates, fines, etc. If you find yourself in a state of emergency and need the proper legal representation, contact a Tampa criminal attorney that can help fight your legal rights. We will fight for you, so you do not have to. 813-931-0840 call today for your free consultation.

Do not drink and drive. Do not text and drive. Think quick, call Blick.

 

 

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