United Entertainment Corp., owner of Diamond 8 Cinemas on Mission Trail in Lake Elsinore, says theater staff will be “especially vigilant” in light of the
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Colorado victims and their families that are now suffering because of a senseless and random act of violence,” said UEC Vice President John Shorba. “Our current information indicates that this was an isolated incident in Colorado and there is no current threat to our theatre facilities or patrons. Nevertheless, we take the security and safety of our guests and employees very seriously and have instructed our managers and staff to be especially vigilant.”
UEC’s Diamond 8 began screening “The Dark Knight Rises” last night and will continue through the weekend. A midnight screening of the film in Aurora, Colo., was the Suspected shooter James Holmes, 24, an honors student from UC Riverside, is in custody.
Shorba said UEC works with local law enforcement in communities, but he would not share specific security measures being implemented at the theater. However, he did say the theater will not be turning away moviegoers dressed in costume.
"While we believe that fake weapons would be inappropriate the day after such a horrific tragedy, we will not be legislating what clothing people wear to attend movies. As always, anything inappropriate will be dealt with by local management," Shorba said.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is on the ready, but is not ramping up patrols, according to spokesman Deputy Albert Martinez.
"The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is ready at a moment’s notice to respond to any emergency event that may occur within our areas of service," Martinez said. “However, patrol operations continue as normal in our areas."
UPDATE: The National Association of Theater Owners has released the following statement:
“On behalf of all the members and staff of the National Association of Theatre Owners, our hearts and prayers go out to the victims of this despicable act and their families. We are grateful for the quick and effective response by police and emergency personnel. Guest safety is, and will continue to be a priority for theater owners. NATO members are working closely with local law enforcement agencies and reviewing security procedures."
