Vancouver Police Chief Jim Chu assured local hockey fans in a news release they will be able to celebrate downtown during the playoffs, but no "hooliganism" will be tolerated.
The statement comes following concerns over how playoff parties would be affected after Chu made comments about preventing rioting at the Vancouver Police Board meeting earlier this week. Media outlets reported the police chief had warned Canucks fans "don't come downtown."
Chu clarified his stance on Saturday.
"At all times and during the hockey playoffs, the Vancouver police are encouraging people to come downtown to enjoy our bars, restaurants, arenas, theaters, shopping and street ambience. Our focus is to make it safe for you to enjoy our city. You are not welcome in Vancouver if you intend to engage in public drinking, hooliganism and criminal behavior," Chu said.
On Tuesday, Vancouver City Manager Penny Ballem will give a presentation on implementing recommendations from the Stanley Cup riot review and a new strategy for this year's playoffs.
Stanley Cup playoffs begin April 11.
