Norman Business Owners Worry About Downtown Atmosphere

Business owners in downtown Norman are worried about the area’s atmosphere and how it is affecting business. 

Last Thursday, a man was arrested for stabbing a server at Scratch Kitchen and Cocktails, a downtown Norman restaurant. 

The owner of the restaurant, Brady Sexton, says this incident is the last straw for him. 

“We had a full dining room of people, which now they associate us with that,” Sexton said. “I think this event has sparked a call to action.”

He said people are hesitant to come to the area, and it is easy to see why.

“The reason is people running down the streets screaming and yelling,” Sexton said. 

His business isn’t the only one being affected by the recent change in atmosphere. He said many other business owners have reached out to him with similar stories. 

“I love downtown Norman, and it's heartbreaking to see people not comfortable coming down here,” Sexton said. 

He said he hopes to find solutions so people feel more comfortable enjoying the area. 

“These people can be arrested, but they are right back on the street in two days,” Sexton said. “It's a very sad situation, but it's time for the city and county to understand our situation is just as sad if not sadder.” 

Sexton met with the mayor of Norman and Norman police earlier this week, and they all agreed on the concerns with the area. Norman Police Department will be increasing patrol downtown, and hope that will help. 

The staff member involved in the incident is okay, and the suspect, Jaspen Evans, remains in jail on two complaints of assault and battery with a deadly weapon.