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Pat-Downs Add Time To Stadium Entry

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By RICH SHOPES

rshopes@tampatrib.com

Published: October 13, 2008

TAMPA - Buccaneers fans seemed OK with the pat-downs they had to consent to Sunday before being allowed inside Raymond James Stadium, even though the security check added to their wait.

The above-the-waist pat-downs took about five seconds per person, but the added precaution made for long lines - especially close to game time. Most fans didn't come any earlier Sunday because of the pat-downs but said they understood the security checks were needed for safety.

"I appreciate it," 62-year-old Charles Delaware of Tampa said, leaning forward in his wheelchair as his back was patted. "With the proximity to U.S. Central Command, it makes sense."

Sunday marked the first time since 2005 that Bucs fans were subjected to the pat-downs at a home game. For three years, Raymond James was the only stadium in the National Football League without them because of a lawsuit filed by high school government teacher Gordon Johnston.

Ultimately, though, the Tampa Sports Authority, which runs the stadium, prevailed in the courts. Johnston said he might appeal, but for now the season-ticket holder is donating his tickets to friends and charitable groups.

The added security Sunday did not sit well with Steve Swenson of Land O' Lakes, who said he's been coming to Bucs games for years. Normally, it takes him about five minutes to get inside the stadium. It took 15 or 20 minutes Sunday.

"It's unnecessary," Swenson said. "We haven't had a problem in the past."

The NFL started requiring the pat-downs for all games in August 2005. Johnston sued to stop them after the second game of the 2005 season. Two weeks ago, the U.S. District Court in Tampa lifted an injunction that had stopped the searches here.

Reporter Rich Shopes can be reached at (813) 259-7633.

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