Block Party Bans Bracelets

Tyler Fox Viscardi and Daniel Anders both died after attending the concert at the Merriweather Post Pavilion, and while autopsy results are pending, authorities suspected drugs might have played a role.

About 20 other people were taken to the hospital during the concert, many with drug-related symptoms. Following the festival, venue operator IMP said in a statement that proper security cautions were taken for the Block Party but, “it is unfortunately difficult to protect fans from their own actions, particularly if committed before they enter the venue.

“Measures at the event included searching each patron prior to entering the venue and denying access to anyone demonstrating objective signs they were under the influence,” the statement said. “Backpacks were not permitted, purses and string bags were searched and each patron received a pat-down search by security. When illegal substances were found, the patron and the substance were turned over to police. Patrons were permitted to bring in an empty water bottle so they could refill it free of charge. No other beverages or food were permitted to be brought in, including candy, gum and breath strips.”

To that end, Mad Decent Block Party tour promoter Bowery Presents has taken matters into its own hands to promote safety at the shows by banning items that could be used to smuggle in drugs or may be linked to drug culture.

Banned items include kandi bracelets and necklaces, eyedrops, open packs of cigarettes and unsealed tampons, pacifiers, masks, spray paint, markers, and stuffed animals, among many others.

Diplo, who’s playing the fest, referenced the ban in a tweet, explaining “i don’t got nothing but love 4 u and your kandi i just want to take steps to make sure everyone is there 100% for the music. not other stuff.”

Mad Decent Block Party tours across the U.S. and Canada through Sept. 21.