CMPD Ensures a Safe and Successful July 4th Celebration in Uptown Char

Published on July 05, 2026

Charlotte, N.C. – (Sunday, July 5, 2026) – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) successfully executed a comprehensive, strategic operations plan to ensure the safety of thousands of visitors in Uptown Charlotte during Saturday’s America 250 celebration. The holiday festivities, which featured live entertainment, a drone show, and a fireworks display, concluded with no major incidents.

CMPD deployed a robust safety initiative, utilizing assets from across the department including officers from patrol, Entertainment District Unit (EDU), Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment (JADE) Unit, Crime Reduction Units (CRU), bicycle and dual-sport officers.

Partnerships with the Charlotte Fire Department, MEDIC, CATS, CDOT and Mecklenburg County Emergency Management were critical in the operation’s success. Event operations were coordinated from the CMPD command center. The command center was operational from 2 p.m. – 3 a.m. on Saturday, July 4.

Strategic enforcement actions included 28 arrests: 9 adults and 19 juveniles.

The adult suspects who were arrested have been identified as Anthony Jaquez, 25, Chrisean Reed, 24, Brian Gainey, 21, Dashaun McKnight, 34, Jonathan Ross, 18, Jeremiah Wallace, 18, Shannon Royster, 35, Chyheim Benton, 23, and Beaty Robert, 34. Charges include Resist, Delay, Obstruct, Possession of Pyrotechnics, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Open Container of Alcoholic Beverage.

The 19 juveniles who were arrested ranged in age from 12 – 17 years-old. Their charges include Curfew Violation, Affray, Possession of Pyrotechnics, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Resist/Delay/Obstruct. Eight parents were cited for Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

Please note: The enforcement data provided represents preliminary figures. These totals are subject to change as reports are finalized. Additional information will be provided by the Public Affairs Division as it becomes available.

The CMPD would like to thank its public safety partners for collaborating in this year’s successful operation.

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