LEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Lee County Fair is taking security very seriously at this year's event. A large Lee County Sheriff's Office presence will be in attendance, as well as metal detectors at the entrance.
A new provision being put in place this year is the clear bag policy.
Diaper bags do not have to be clear, but they will be checked. Backpacks, purses and handbags will fall under the clear bag policy.
Mike Peak, President of the Lee County Fair Association, said the policy improves public safety.
“It prevents somebody from bringing something in that shouldn't be on grounds, could be dangerous,” said Peak.
Security is a priority for organizers after a shooting left one person dead at the DeSoto County Fair just a few weeks ago.
On Thursday, Peak said they are confident in their safety protocols.
“We are continuing with our safety protocols that we have,” said Peak.
Peak talked about keeping dangerous items and dangerous people off the midway.
Back in March of 2022, Fox 4 reported that the Lee County Sheriff’s Office removed the registered sex offender, James Tennant, from working at the fair.
Tennant, whose sex offender charges went undetected, was working under a false name as a game attendant inside the fair.
Fox 4 asked Peak if someone like Tennant could slip under the radar again this year.
"Well, you know if they had a false ID and if it was good enough to get through the computer checks, well sure,” said Peak.
Peak said James Tennant joined the fair after opening day and gave Reithoffer Shows, the company that again this year is providing the rides and game booths, a false name.
Peak said before a background check could be complete, Tennant was recognized and removed by authorities.
“We are strictly making sure the policy is followed that nobody, none of the workers, come on and start working before they have gone through that protocol,” said Peak.
Protocols that Peak said include screenings of their own.
“All of their employees are also screened by us through our computer check,” said Peak.
The Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair runs from February 23-March 5, 2023.
