Fat Boys Show Canceled, Fans Beat Promoter

BAKERSFIELD — Fans of the Fat Boys threw rocks and bottles at police and beat up a concert promoter as he tried to leave in his 1985 Mercedes with the receipts after canceling a performance by the rap group, police and witnesses said.

At least three concert-goers were arrested after Sunday night’s melee on charges ranging from failing to disperse to felony assault on a peace officer and felony assault on a police dog, according to Kern County sheriff’s Sgt. Wim Leijder.

The crowd learned that the concert was canceled 90 minutes after it was scheduled to start. Then a group of concert-goers spotted the promoter, Marvin Adams of Hollywood, getting into his car with the show’s receipts, according to a sheriff’s statement.

“Then they pulled him out and beat him up,” said Darcie Powell, 14. “He was all bloody.”

Car Crushed, Overturned

The cream-colored car was crushed and overturned, authorities said. Looters pulled money and stereo equipment from the car while several concert-goers beat Adams.

Police early today said they did not know the extent of Adams’ injuries or whether he was hospitalized.

It was unknown why the concert at Kern County Fairgrounds was canceled. Police would not elaborate beyond a prepared statement on the incident.

Police officers were met by a barrage of rocks and bottles when they formed a line to push back the rioting crowd of 2,000.

Twenty-four sheriff’s officials, aided by 12 California Highway Patrol and 26 Bakersfield police officers, advanced on the crowd in a straight line wearing riot helmets and carrying billy clubs.

“Several people tried to force their way through the police line and some were bitten by a sheriff’s dog,” according to the sheriff’s statement.

“All I wanted to know was when I could get my money back,” said Todd Lee, 17. “Next thing you know, the dog’s biting me and they throw me to the ground and handcuff me.”