Security changes are being made, following a wave of violence at the State Fair’s opening day. The Governor has directed the State Patrol to provide extra officers at State Fair Park in West Allis, after 24 people were arrested Thursday night in a series of attacks at the event. Four people were injured, including two police officers who had to be hospitalized.
The violence was the result of large groups of young people swarming the grounds and intimidating or attacking fairgoers. Witnesses have described the attacks as racially motivated.
Children under the age of 18 will also no longer be admitted to the park after 5pm without a parent or guardian who is at least 21.
A spokesman for Governor Walker says the state will do everything in its power to ensure parents feel safe about bringing their children to the world’s best fair and security will be adjusted as necessary.