San Diego
heightens pride security

After last year's violent gay bashings, San Diego activists are working to increase security at this weekend's pride events, reports the Los Angeles Times.

Supported by Mayor Jerry Sanders, the initiative will include both walking and vehicular patrols of the Hillcrest "gayborhood" and neighboring areas. The number of police officers assigned to patrol the weekend festivities will also be increased, a police spokeswoman told the Los Angeles Times.

Last year, six gay men were beaten with bats and chains in two separate attacks. These assaults, coupled with increasing theft reports in neighborhoods with strong gay identities, prompted formation of the Stonewall Citizens Patrol. "We want to make sure nothing like last year happens again," patrol cofounder Bob Lehman told the Times.

According to the paper, three adult men and a teenager were arrested within several days after last year's beatings. All have since pleaded guilty. (The Advocate)