The Buzz: State police boost beach party patrols

(WPRI) - Rhode Island State Police are launching a new effort aimed at cracking down on drinking at Block Island beaches this Fourth of July.

On Thursday, State Police Superintendent Col. Steven O'Donnell outlined a new law initiative to enforce the ban on alcohol at beaches on Block Island and surrounding beach communities.

O'Donnell cited an incident last year on July 4 in which 2,500 people crowded a Block Island beach, many needing treatment for alcohol-related issues.

"The volume of individuals who were consuming alcohol on the beach overwhelmed first responders," Col. O'Donnell explained.

To make sure that doesn't happen again, State Police are adding ten additional troopers on Block Island this Fourth of July, and tracking social media to monitor large gatherings at the beaches.

"We'll practice zero tolerance for those who do not obey the laws," warned Col. O'Donnell.