Tampa Police raise security levels at movie theaters | News
Tampa, Florida - In the wake of the Colorado shooting, Tampa movie theaters are taking no chances. Security is tight. Within seconds of our arrival, AMC and Westshore Mall security descended on 10 News and asked us not to shoot the facility.
Gallery: Tweets, real time social media from Dark Knight shooting scene *warning, VERY GRAPHIC content*
The threat of a gunman in a crowded theater has frightened movie goers nationwide, including here in Tampa. Cheryl Stanfill is one of those people.
"I was concerned with copy-cat type people, that they might try and duplicate it here," said Stanfill.
Pictures: PHOTO GALLERY from the shooting scene
However, she can breathe easier as she watches her film at Hyde Park's Cine Bistro, because Tampa police are on elevated alert.
Tampa Chief of Police Jane Castor released the following statement to reassure the public. It read, in part, quote, "While the Tampa Police Department has no intelligence of any threats to weekend movie goers, we will increase patrols around Tampa theaters in an abundance of caution."
The evidence can clearly be seen. Cop cruisers were spotted outside several theaters, and many have hired Tampa police officers for shows this evening and throughout the weekend.
Despite the added security, some people still won't go see the new Batman film.
"I won't go see Batman out of respect for the victims."
At Britton 8 theaters, management told 10 News that bag checks are routine, and are even recommended by the studios who license theaters to show major motion pictures.
They were adopted more than a decade ago to originally keep video cameras and other recording devices from getting inside.
More Dark Knight movie shooting coverage:
Pictures: PHOTO GALLERY from the shooting scene
Gallery: Tweets, real time social media from Dark Knight shooting scene *warning, VERY GRAPHIC content*
Suspect: James Holmes: Dark Knight shooting suspect identified, picture
Whole story: At least 12 killed, dozens injured in shooting at Colorado movie theater
Controversy: New Batman movie created controversy, threats before release
Mitt Romney Dark Knight tie? The Bane/Bain name game
Obama shocked: Obama says he is "shocked" by Colorado shooting
Journalist killed: Aspiring hockey journalist among shooting victims
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