Following a mass stabbing incident that left five men hospitalized, Sacramento is implementing enhanced security measures in its historic Old Sacramento district. The Downtown Sacramento Partnership, an organization representing local businesses, announced it is doubling the presence and staffing of its private security force, HQ Security, on Friday and Saturday nights.
These private patrols, which will operate in black vehicles, are contracted for one year with the possibility of extension. Scott Ford of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership stated that the goal is to create a "visible presence" and ensure the downtown neighborhood is "fundamentally safe, welcoming for everyone." Michael Ault, the partnership's executive director, emphasized the importance of protecting Old Sacramento, an "iconic destination and part of this city’s identity."
The increased private security presence is intended to deter crime and reassure visitors, particularly in the popular tourist area along the Sacramento River. "We need to protect it, invest in it and let people know this is a safe place to come," Ault said.
Complementing these private efforts, the Sacramento Police Department is also stepping up its patrols every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night, beginning at 10 p.m. Additionally, nighttime traffic restrictions will be enacted in Old Sacramento, with several streets becoming pedestrian-only after 10 p.m. to improve safety and reduce congestion. Police spokesperson Allison Smith noted that these changes aim to increase visibility and allow for a more immediate response to incidents.
The surge in security measures was prompted by a stabbing that occurred early on July 25, 2026, near Front Street and K Street. The incident, reportedly stemming from a verbal argument, led to the hospitalization of five men. Police identified and arrested 18-year-old Ezekiel Griffis in connection with the stabbing and booked him into the Sacramento County Main Jail on assault charges.
This is not the first time Old Sacramento has seen significant incidents; a large brawl involving approximately 50 juveniles occurred in 2021. Visitors have expressed support for the increased security, with one resident, Cindy Scheffler, stating that the added presence makes her feel "safe and secure."![Back of a black private security patrol SUV with "1-888-580-2677", "PRIVATE PATROL", "HQ SECURITY", and "HQSECURITY.US" printed on it.]( "Back of a black private security patrol SUV with "1-888-580-2677", "PRIVATE PATROL", "HQ SECURITY", and "HQSECURITY.US" printed on it.")