Police to Monitor Activity at Devil's Pool in Wissahickon

Due to increased littering and illegal parking, swimming and diving, the Philadelphia Police Department will increase its presence at Devil's Pool and Valley Green Inn in the Wissahickon Valley Park July 8.

In a news release from the Friends of the Wissahickon, 5th District Sgt. Mike Vassallo said law enforcement would step up patrols Sunday, and continue its presence throughout the summer. 

The 5th and 14th Districts, in addition to Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Park Rangers, will maintain an increased lookout in those areas, which fall victim to quality of life issues, such as trash, open containers, and animal violations—in addition to illegal swimming.

"We will be enforcing all park rules and regulations, as well as city-wide laws," Vassallo said of the effort, which will involve officers in patrol cars and on foot, bike, and motorcycles. 

The Friends of the Wissahickon also spoke on the matter. 

"This time of year is the peak season for use of the park around Valley Green Inn and Devil's Pool," FOW Executive Director Maura McCarthy said. "And every year we see an increase in environmental damage to the park and the creek, car break-ins and thefts, and injuries related to illegal swimming and diving. The extra effort put forth by these officers is greatly needed and appreciated." 

Vist the Friends of the Wissahickon for more information.