The article discusses the rise in disruptive crowd behaviour across various public events, including sports and concerts, highlighting social scientists' concerns about changing norms, the influence of social media, and societal trends indicating a potential decline in civility and adherence to social norms.
Multiple incidents of fans throwing sex toys onto the court during WNBA games have occurred, with one nearly hitting player Sophie Cunningham, raising safety concerns and prompting calls for more serious behavior at sporting events.
During a large protest against ICE in San Francisco, police arrested about 60 people after encircling and tackling protesters, with some onlookers injured by police actions. The protests, part of ongoing demonstrations over immigration enforcement, turned violent with police deploying less-lethal rounds and making mass arrests, following earlier rallies that drew hundreds.
Aditya Verma, a British man of Indian origin, is facing trial in Spain for causing public disorder after joking about blowing up a plane in a Snapchat message. The message, sent before departing Gatwick airport, led to Spanish Air Force jets being deployed to flank the aircraft. Verma claims it was a private joke and not meant to cause harm, but could face substantial expenses if found guilty. While not facing terrorism charges, he may be fined up to 22,500 Euros and asked to reimburse 95,000 Euros in expenses.
French authorities have banned the possession, transport, and sale of fireworks ahead of Bastille Day celebrations due to fears of renewed unrest following a week of nationwide riots sparked by the police shooting of a 17-year-old in Paris. The ban will remain in place until July 15 and aims to prevent serious public disorder. The riots, which were the worst case of urban violence since 2005, highlighted underlying frustrations related to allegations of systemic racism, unemployment, and social inequalities. The ban will not affect official municipal fireworks displays.