Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Monday, April 29, 2013
(JOHNSON COUNTY) - Planning a big party in Johnson County is now a lot tougher. Organizers of some parties will have to get a permit.
Adrienne Broaddus of WISH TV8 reports that it's in response to a shooting outside an event at the Walnut Ridge Golf Course in Center Grove last month.
The rules are designed to target parties run privately. The new rules give police authority to stop large parties from getting out of hand.
Sheriff Doug Cox keeps pictures of the damage on his iPad. One image shows shattered car windows and bullet holes in a passenger door.
"There is a bullet hole in one of the vehicles. So, if somebody had of been sitting in there they would have been at risk," Cox said.
The shooters got away. Now, Johnson County requires a permit to throw a big bash at any facility in the county.
But it doesn't stop there.
"An individual with a felony will not be allowed to even have a permit. Certain misdemeanors that involve alcohol or loud behavior, or certain things may prevent an individual from getting a permit," Cox said.
Cox said the recent parties have attracted gangs, drugs, guns an underage drinking.
Kaye Miller and her friend Donna Hasty live nearby. Both, who golf at the course frequently, are pleased with changes.
"I couldn't believe it. You never think it is going to happen in your neighborhood and it did. I think the background checks are a wonderful idea," Hasty said.
Miller added, "It will protect all of us if we have to get back ground checks."
Hasty will have to apply for a permit. Her family is planning to host a family reunion this summer at the golf course.
Meanwhile, the permits will cost between $210 and $335.
Organizers must have insurance coverage of at least $1 million.
Non profit organizations, schools, governments, charities, religious organizations and hotels aren't required to get a permit.
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