Approximately 47 people were arrested at the 2016 Alpha Psi Rodeo, which is similar to last year's total, according to Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. Jones said 50 charges were filed.
Eli Young Band headlined the event, which took place Saturday, April 2, at Ingram Farms.
Jones said officers tried to be lenient, and everyone's safety was their priority. The Lee County Sheriff's Office was in charge of security, and officers from the Opelika Police Department, the Auburn Police Division, Alabama Law Enforcement Association, Alabama ABC and a private security firm assisted in policing the event.
"Our primary and ultimate goal was just to do everything we could to ensure the safety of the attendees," Jones said.
Jones said people were drinking "copious quantities" of alcohol, and the event had "elements of unsafe activities" because of intoxication.
People were arrested for offenses such as disorderly contact, minor in possession of alcohol, public lewdness and misdemeanor theft, specifically vendors reporting stolen generators.
Jones said one sexual assault has been reported at the event. He said it is under investigation to determine when and where it occurred.
Fourteen thousand people attended the event, according to Jones.
"Those arrests were a very small percentage of the attendees," Jones said.
Six people was taken to the hospital, according to Jones, but he said he did not believe there were any serious injuries. He said they were transported because of "alcohol ingestion issues."
Justin Gibson co-chairman of rodeo, said he thought the event was a success.
"The Eli Young Band, along with Josh Thompson and Muscadine Bloodline put on an awesome show and all guest we talked to told us they were having a great time," Gibson said via email.
Gibson said he did not know how much money the event made because they are still paying for services from the weekend. However, he said proceeds will be donated to the College of Veterinary Medicine and Storybook Farm.
"These are our traditional donations, but we will donate to as many local charitable organizations as we can as long as the funds are available," Gibson said.
There were several safety changes at this year's rodeo. Gates did not open until 11 a.m. and lighting was added to ensure a safe environment. Gibson said the fraternity will meet with officials to assess the improvements and come up with ways to make the event as safe as possible.
"I believe the changes we made were effective in making the event safer, but we all know there is always room for improvement," Gibson said. "We have many post event meetings in place with both the private security and the sheriff's department to discuss ways to make the event safer."
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
