Watch CBS News

Police: Parents Bringing Kids To '4/20' Smokeout In Golden Gate Park Could Be Arrested

KCBS_740SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- San Francisco Police are warning parents that they could be arrested if they bring their kids to an annual marijuana celebration in Golden Gate Park next week.

The 4/20 smoke out on Hippie Hill at the eastern edge of Golden Gate Park happens every year on April 20th, with as many as 15,000 people expected to show up this year.

San Francisco Police Captain John Sanford told KCBS that the smoke zone is no place for kids.

"We have issued a very stern warning that if we see parents bringing their children within that environment, it is very likely that we are going to take enforcement action," Sanford said.

Sanford stressed that each situation will be evaluated individually, but parents could be slapped with child endangerment charges.

"We'll have to evaluate, how old the kids are; if the kids belong in school; are they endangered in any manner," Sanford said.

Scott, who was getting high on Hippie Hill Wednesday told KCBS he didn't see the big deal.

"I think every parent has the right to parent their child as they wish.  Me, I believe you should do it in front of your kid, to teach 'em how to be responsible with it," he said.

Last year, a park ranger was injured by a thrown bottle, and fights broke out during the celebration.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.