The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office reported the arrest of three individuals following a large gathering of over 200 teenagers at a local park.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Yet another incident dubbed a ‘teen takeover’ has caught the attention of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities were dispatched to Blue Cypress Park in the University Park vicinity on Wednesday evening after the congregation of teenagers escalated into chaos, with several fights erupting, according to JSO. Three young women were taken into custody in connection with the disturbances.
During the incident, a group splintered off and headed to a nearby apartment complex, prompting reports of gunfire. However, after conducting an investigation, police found no evidence of any injuries.
The park was subsequently closed off to prevent the return of the teenagers, and JSO announced it would remain inaccessible for the remainder of the night.
“Parents and guardians, this needs to stop,” JSO stated in a release. “Stay informed and vigilant about your teenager’s activities. Help us minimize these takeovers by being aware of their whereabouts and companions. Do not leave them unsupervised at locations without a clear understanding of their intentions.”
Large gatherings of teenagers have been a focus of law enforcement as of late, with some turning violent.
Last month in Jacksonville Beach, five people aged 15 to 18 were shot at a gathering close to a packed festival. Earlier in February, a gun was fired at a ‘takeover’ at the Avenues Mall.
