Police ready for 'Krispy Kreme flash-mob' of car enthusiasts

BURBANK, Calif. (FOX 11 / CNS) - Police plan to be out in force at the Burbank Empire Center today, braced for the possibility of a "flash-mob-style'' gathering of car enthusiasts at the Krispy Kreme doughnut store.

Hundreds of people have traditionally shown up for the so-called "Krispy Kreme Tuesdays'' gatherings, often overwhelming parking lots and creating traffic nightmares. A 2013 gathering drew as many as 3,500 people and
1,100 cars. Although there were no arrests, officers issued about 100 citations for vehicle code violations.

A rumored gathering at the Burbank Empire Center in June also had police on heightened alert, and the Krispy Kreme store -- which is not affiliated with the event -- closed early. With police warning of potentially large
crowds, the event was moved at the last minute to the Puente Hills Mall in Industry, where about 1,500 people gathered. No injuries were reported, but there were three arrests and 48 citations were issued, according to the
sheriff's department.

An announcement on the Krispy Kreme Tuesdays Burbank Facebook page indicated that a gathering is planned Tuesday, but the "location will be announced at 8 p.m. to avoid unwanted attention.''

Burbank police said the department "will always respect and recognize the rights of individuals to peacefully and lawfully assemble.'' But the department noted that mass gatherings "can create a public nuisance, disturb the general peace and create situations which impact the safe and efficient flow of traffic. To that end, the Burbank Police Department will be fully deployed in the area to enforce all applicable laws, including those involving
illegal engine/vehicle modifications.''