Members of the Hermosa Beach Police Department put away their police uniforms and pulled out the director’s chair for a 4th of July public safety video that warns minors of the consequences of drinking booze on the beach.
“We’re trying to get the message out to the High School kids,” said HBPD Lt. Garth Gaines.
The movie, which was filmed on the Hermosa Beach Strand, was made in corporation with local students after the HBPD Facebook sent out casting call.
“Calling all Stars! We are looking for a few enthusiastic teens to star in what will undoubtedly be a YouTube sensation!” the Facebook post said. “…This video will show scenarios of teenagers and the most common crimes we deal with during the 4th. So if you’ve ever wanted your teenager cuffed and stuffed into a police car sign ’em up! (taser by parent optional).”
A subsequent post announced the police department’s phone number for their “casting agent.”
Parents responded and soon the HBPD had six teenagers to star in the three-minute film.
“Wow, again the power of social media…” the HBPD Facebook page said later that day. “Within minutes of posting this we now have all our “stars” cast in this multi-million dollar blockbuster…er, uh… YouTube video.”
As soon as the video was posted on YouTube, it did indeed become a YouTube sensation.
The movie begins with five kids driving down Hermosa Avenue in an SUV talking about a party they are planning on attending.
“So where did you hear about this 4th of July party anyway?” One of the actors says.
“I saw it all over twitter,” a girl answers in a monotone voice, followed by another who just as enthusiastically responds, “Yeah everyone in our schools gunna be there.”
A voiceover talks while the students pile out of the car and onto the beach.
“While juveniles are always welcome to Hermosa Beach they must also remember to obey the rules. Possession of an open container of alcohol in a public place by anyone under the age of 21 is a misdemeanor— 25662 B & P—This includes hiding it in red cups and Gatorade bottles. Smoking on the beach, strand or pier is prohibited.”
While the students laugh, drink beer and smoke pot on the beach, an “undercover” officer with binoculars wearing a Hawaiian shirt watches from The Strand.
The voiceover continues as the students walk to the street and immediately get stopped by officers and arrested.
“This year there will be an increased number of undercover officers— we don’t want a repeat of previous 4th of Julys where the number of juveniles drinking grew out of control and fights broke out, resulting in serious injuries including a few stabbings.”
“I don’t think a lot of them are aware that they can lose their driver’s license,” Gaines said during an interview. “Even though it’s a ticket that doesn’t involve a car any way, shape or form.
“Having a license and driving is what independence means to most kids,” the voice continues. “However, most kids don’t know that if they’re cited for an open container violation they will lose their license for one year.”
The movie explains that if they are over 18, a $200 citation can be issued and minors will require a parent or guardian’s presence to get out of jail. Even possession of an open container can result in a citation and arrest.
“We’ll be cracking down this year and the punishment is a little harsher than they think it is,” said Gaines.
The film ends dramatically.
“This 4th of July don’t lose your independence.”
A sorter version of the video was released on May 20 and additionally warned that college and job prospects could be affected by an arrest. The ending to the new 52-second video was even more dramatic.
“This 4th of July be cool, don’t play the fool.”
The officer who directed the film recently moved to another police department and was unavailable for questions. Visit the Hermosa Beach Police Department’s Facebook page to see the video. ER
