The concert crackdown kicked off two weeks ago at the Dave Matthews Shows. Police say they have been trying to curb drug and alcohol use to prevent violence. They continued that crackdown today with night one of the Phish concert.
By the time the music started tonight, police had already been busy.
"We've had several felony drug arrests so far, and I expect many more," said Major Steven Rivenburgh, with the New York State Park Police.
Tonight police continued their crack down by setting up more checkpoints and bringing in more drug dogs.
"We got here at ten in the morning and we went through a checkpoint," said Joe, a Phish fan.
"Some people were getting searched," said Molly Daly, another fan.
"Seem to be getting more police presence at this venue than any other," said Chris Johnson, also a Phish fan.
That visible presence has already shown results. Police say they saw a difference after the Dave Matthews concerts two weeks ago.
"The underage drinking tickets were up, regular tickets were about the same, there were no assaults, unlike other years," said Rivenburgh.
A similar trend was already on the way today. Three hours before the show began, police say they had already made more arrests than the same time last year.
Some fans say the crackdown is not necessary.
"There’s no need for it here, maybe other concerts where people are crazy," said Ben Storey, a fan.
Others say, it’s understandable and not ruining their good time.
"They had to do something," said Daly.
"Wouldn’t let any cops ruin my good time," said Johnson.
"It’s a great time and the music is great, it's the greatest band in the world," said Storey.
