Police Arrest 24 at Phish Shows in Columbia

According to Howard County Police, when the band Phish is in town, drug activity increases.

This year, history proved a good guide; police made 21 drug-related arrests this weekend at two Phish concerts at the Merriweather Post Pavilion on Saturday, June 11, and Sunday, June 12, according to a statement released by the department. More than 3,500 people attended the two shows.

Drugs confiscated included marijuana, hashish, ecstasy, nitrous oxide and methamphetamine; police also issued 22 citations for underage drinking and seized two vehicles containing drugs and more than $2,000 in cash.

According to police, Phish, a band in the tradition of the Grateful Dead that specializes in long improvisational songs, historically brings with it increased drug activity.

Security was provided by police officials from special operations, vice and narcotics and traffic enforcement. Police worked with the Merriweather Post Pavilion to focus efforts on drug distribution. 

While the 24 people arrested on drug-related charges came from as far away as California and Ohio and from neighboring areas like Delaware and D.C., among the group was a 28-year-old Columbia man for distribution.

In addition to the drug-related arrests, three people, including an Ellicott City resident, were arrested for trespassing and disorderly conduct.