Belmont Shore Enhances Security After Dave's Hot Chicken Stabbing

LONG BEACH, CA — Police presence in Belmont Shore will increase in response to a fatal stabbing that occurred early Sunday morning at Dave's Hot Chicken, officials said.

The Belmont Shore Business Association and District 3 Councilwoman Kristina Duggan requested heightened security during key times. In addition to enhanced security measures, Duggan had previously scheduled a community meeting with Long Beach Police Department East Division Commander for Thursday and will be adding a second meeting so everyone in the community is able to attend.

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As a result of the stabbing, Dave's Hot Chicken will be reducing its hours of operation to 10: 30 a.m. to 12 a.m., previously the restaurant stayed open until 2 a.m. Additionally, alcohol will no longer be served past 10 p.m. inside Dave's, officials said.

"The safety and well-being of our patrons and staff are of utmost importance to us, and we believe these measures are necessary to ensure a secure environment for the Belmont Shore community," Dave's said.

Bar owners in Belmont Shore will also take proactive measures to procedures, protocols and security measures within their businesses in an effort to address issues affecting public safety, according to Heather Kern, Executive Director of the Belmont Shore Business Association.

Duggan said officials will be reviewing the number of ABC licenses in the area and their conditions, requesting DUI checkpoints and working directly with businesses.

"These actions are within our control as a City, but we need help. We can't put officers at every corner to prevent crimes, so we need help from other parts of the justice system to serve as a deterrent. People that commit crimes need to know they will face consequences and be held accountable for their actions," Duggan said.

Community members will have the opportunity to meet with Duggan at the Coffee with the Commander event at 10 a.m. on March 7 at Sheldrake Coffee Roasting. An additional event is being planned, with more details forthcoming.