RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond police are cracking down on James River park goers, especially at Texas Beach.

Authorities stated they have made arrests and citations at the popular site as part of an on-going operation to address complaints, including drinking, litter and indecent exposure.

Recently, officers focused on the area for eight days and issued 40 citations for open alcohol containers as well as an arrest for underage drinking and one for indecent exposure.

Brian Hill is a Martial Arts Instructor at River City Aikido; he often brings his students to the park for various camp activities.

“We’ve been using both the north side and the south side of the river, Pony Pasture, we’re at Reedy Creek and the kids honestly love Texas Beach the best,” said Hill.

However, the instructor said he has had students who have found hypodermic needles and have encountered other illegal activities.

“I will tell you that we were down here last week a couple of my teenagers saw some guys dog fighting, and they called the police,” Hill said.”I think there is that element but I have personally never had a negative experience.”

Officers say they’ll be checking in throughout the summer to make the park more appealing for families.Find 8News on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram; send your news tips to iReport8@wric.com.