The New York Police Department's 112th Precinct was thanked by a concertgoer for its response to "rampant open nitrous oxide use" outside recent Phish concerts in Forest Hills, Queens. The issue, a persistent problem at jam band events, reportedly continued despite police presence, raising concerns about public safety, including a disturbing account of a toddler attempting to interact with discarded balloons.
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as 'laughing gas,' has long been associated with Phish and other jam band concerts, often sold illegally by organized groups referred to as the 'nitrous mafia.' Concertgoers inhale the gas from balloons for a brief euphoric effect, but the practice carries risks, including oxygen deprivation, and creates significant litter and public nuisance.
The tweet, posted by user 'Jean' on July 25, 2025, specifically highlighted the ongoing nature of the problem observed during the recent July 22-23 Phish performances at Forest Hills Stadium:
"It was tamer than last night but still issues - a toddler I was watching wanted to play w/one of the inflated balloons she saw on the ground 😳" This observation underscores the challenges faced by authorities in curbing the illicit activity and the potential hazards to unsuspecting individuals, including children, in the vicinity of concert venues.
The 112th Precinct, which serves the Forest Hills and Rego Park areas of Queens, has historically been involved in efforts to address such public order issues. Police departments across the country have made numerous arrests at Phish concerts for the sale and possession of nitrous oxide, confiscating tanks and cash from sellers who often travel with the band's tour. Despite these enforcement actions, the lucrative nature of the illegal trade ensures its continued presence.
The widespread use of nitrous oxide at these events presents an ongoing challenge for local law enforcement and venue security, impacting public spaces surrounding concert grounds. While Phish itself has not directly commented on this specific incident, the band's community has long acknowledged the presence of the 'nitrous mafia,' with official fan resources advising against supporting these illicit operations due to their exploitative nature and the associated risks.