Desert Hot Springs Police Chief Stephen Shaw shared encouraging news this week: the city now has the lowest crime rate among Coachella Valley cities, the result of dedicated crime-reduction efforts. But just down the valley, Indio saw a different kind of story play out during Weekend 2 of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
According to The Desert Sun, a total of 128 arrests were made during the second weekend of the festival — a 14% increase compared to the same weekend in 2024 and a 34% jump from Weekend 1 this year. The uptick may be linked to the unofficial marijuana holiday 4/20, which fell on the Saturday of the festival weekend.
Most of the arrests were drug-related, while others involved fake IDs. While recreational marijuana is legal in California, its use is not permitted at special events like Coachella. Some are questioning whether this policy is realistic for a music festival of this scale.
On NBC Palm Springs, contributors Stephanie Miner and Jim Walker discussed whether the timing of 4/20 had a major impact on the arrests. Miner called it likely a coincidence, while Walker pointed out the contradiction of banning weed at a legal-weed event, suggesting legal on-site dispensaries could reduce issues tied to alcohol use.
Both also noted the challenges Goldenvoice faces when it comes to controlling illegal substances at a massive venue like the Empire Polo Club. Stricter entry searches may help, but as Walker remarked, “Could you imagine just how long the lines would be?”
As cities like Desert Hot Springs work to reduce crime year-round, event organizers in Indio continue to balance safety with the expectations of festival-goers.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
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By: Fred Roggin
April 29, 2025
