Officials cite gambling-driven violence and rising policing costs at youth sports events; CPS, city consider funding support

City and school officials described concerns about violence and rising costs at youth sports events and discussed possible administrative and funding responses.

Josh Harden, CPS athletic director, said a collaborative group convened by the city and CPS is reviewing recommended safety measures after recent incidents at youth football events. Harden summarized Cincinnati Police Department recommendations, which included limiting attendance, wanding at entry and earlier start times, and said some events have seen increased police overtime rates.

Harden provided an itemized hourly cost estimate for running an event under the recommended safety regime: three police officers at $267 per hour, wanding at roughly $124 per hour for screening, custodial services at $74 per hour, CPS site managers at about $25 per hour and facility rental at $60 per hour — which he said amounts to roughly $550 per hour for a fully staffed event.

"We have identified that that is a high number for them to be able to come in and have their events," Harden said, and he described a possible application process for funding support that the city might consider if programs organize and present applications.

Councilmember Scottie Johnson and other officials urged direct attention to gambling and adult accountability at games. "The reason why we have seen an uptick in violence...is the ridiculous amount of money that's being bet on these youth games," Johnson said. He said police officers are unwilling to take details when they face potentially dangerous situations and noted the role of adult behavior in creating risks for youth.

Board members and council members emphasized keeping leagues affordable for families and urged private sponsorship or business partnerships to defray costs. Officials noted groups such as Brothers Inc. and other local partners have expressed willingness to assist with security or support; the city said it will explore possible sponsorships and administrative options to reduce the burden on leagues.

The committee did not take a formal vote. Officials said they will continue discussions with city managers and community partners about funding, insurance and operational requirements for youth leagues and community rentals of CPS facilities.