Bar owners say Baton Rouge's Third Street feels different at night after a police crackdown

The useful part

WBRZ first reported on the fights on Third Street, with video of at least one altercation going viral online. Unda says the increased police presence has made a noticeable difference, particularly during busy hours when bars close and patrons move into the streets. Lieutenant L'Jean McKneely says club owners have also taken steps on their own.

How it works

• McKneely says officers are already working the area and more can be called in when needed.
• "We already have officers working here, and if we see that there is an influx, we'll make a call and get some additional officers and have them address the issues, if they are indeed happening," McKneely said.
• "What has happened is the club owners themselves have taken the proactive approach and added additional officers for the downtown events," McKneely said.

What to take from it

That attention prompted bar owners to speak out about downtown safety. Bar owner Daniel Unda said the situation had become a serious problem.

Details worth keeping

"Night and day, as I said, the police presence has been here," Unda said.