Raid of Texas gay bar prompts changes

FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Police in Fort Worth, Texas, said they instituted significant changes in the wake of a controversial raid on a local gay bar.

The Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram said Thursday with gay-rights activists seeking an independent inquiry into the Rainbow Lounge incident, Fort Worth police instituted changes intended to improve relations with the local gay community.

Among the changes implemented by the police force was the creation of the post of police liaison to the local gay community and requiring employees to undergo improved diversity and multicultural training.

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, whose officers were also involved in the June 28 raid, hired internal-affairs investigators along with an inspector to monitor the commission's procedures.

The Star-Telegram said the raid on the Rainbow Lounge resulted in five public intoxication arrests along with an individual being cited for assault and public intoxication. The incident also prompted four formal complaints and claims of 38 alleged policy violations.