America's Most Dangerous Chuck-E-Cheese

We all know that Flint, Michigan is one of the most dangerous cities in America. (number 3 on the list . . . The infamous Compton, CA is number 4). Even here, though, one would think that Chuck-E-Cheese, that icon of Americana, would be safe. A haven from the storms of life where happy children play as smiling parents watch approvingly.

If one thought this, however, one would be very, very wrong.

The first call came in at 8:53 p.m. concerning a fight among three teenage girls at the pizza parlor. A Genesee County Sheriff's paramedic and state troopers quickly got the fight under control, and canceled other officers headed that way to back them up. . .But a few minutes later, the officers sent out a second call as the fight erupted again, and quickly turned into "a knock-down, drag-out between 75 and 80 people," said Flint Township police Sgt. Tim Jones. . . Police from around the county poured into the restaurant shortly after 9 p.m. trying to control the crowd. . .Officers from Burton, Swartz Creek and the townships of Mundy, Clayton and Flint assisted county and state police officers. . .Pepper spray used to control the crowd may have added to the uproar.

Apparently, this isn't the first time there has been trouble in paradise:

A corporate spokesperson said late Monday: "We do everything in our power to make it a safe place for kids. These were both isolated incidents."

But Flint Township police say they were called 30 separate times to Chuck E. Cheese last year. The cases range from assault to disorderly conduct to even one case of criminal sexual conduct.

So far, police have responded five times already this year. (as of January 28.)

One such incident is tragic and sad, but 35? Once every ten days things at the Chuck-E-Cheese require police intervention?!?! I don't know what to say about that, other than "I'll take that TO GO please."

So, if you're ever in Flint watch out for. . .umm. . . on second though, just turn around and go home.