Gulf Shores Arrests during Hangout Music Festival

R. Ken Cooper • May 22, 2023

Hangout Music Festival Arrests Down in 2023

Gulf Shores, Ala. - (OBA) - The 2023 Hangout Music Festival, held in Gulf Shores, saw a total of 107 arrests, a decrease from the previous year's total of 133. The Gulf Shores Police Department (GSPD) and the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) were the primary law enforcement agencies involved, with the BCSO making the majority of the arrests.

The majority of the arrests were for felonies, with 89 individuals charged, while misdemeanors accounted for 17 arrests. Unlawful possession of a controlled substance was the most common offense, with 109 charges, followed by possession of marijuana 2nd, with 15 charges. Males made up 57% of the arrests, while females accounted for 39.3%.

In comparison to the previous year, the 2023 festival saw a decrease in overall arrests, but an increase in felony charges. The 2022 festival had a total of 133 arrests, with 127 charges for unlawful possession of a controlled substance. The decrease in arrests in 2023 could be attributed to a variety of factors, including increased security measures, changes in festival policies, or shifts in attendee behavior. Despite the decrease in total arrests, the high number of felony charges in 2023 indicates a serious issue with drug possession at the festival.

The graphics above and below are details provided by the Gulf Shores Police.

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