Law enforcement sends warning on 'Teen Takeovers'

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Law enforcement agencies across Southwest Florida are keeping a closer eye on large gatherings of young people organized through social media.

The attention comes after a shooting at a gathering in Clearwater that left a 17-year-old hospitalized and led to the arrest of a 16-year-old suspect. Investigators say the dispute that led to the shooting began weeks earlier and was fueled through social media.

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office recently increased its presence at Vanderbilt Beach after hundreds of students gathered following the last day of school. Deputies also responded to Regal Naples after receiving information about another large gathering of young people.

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While some law enforcement agencies have warned about “teen takeovers,” Naples Police Chief Ciro Dominguez says the size of a crowd alone is not what concerns officers.

“Just because several people gather in and of themselves isn’t illegal,” Dominguez said. “But does it cross itself over to obstructing businesses, losing control, or do they become violent amongst themselves?”

Dominguez said officers monitor large gatherings and are prepared to intervene if safety concerns increase.

“You watch it, you observe it, you be prepared to intervene if risks go up,” he said.

For some young adults, gatherings like these can provide opportunities to socialize and connect with others.

One Collier County teen said many people are still rebuilding in-person connections after years of increased online interaction.

“I do think it is important to have a third space for teenagers to go just so they’re not being stuck at home or stuck at school,” Damien said.

Damien acknowledged that while most people simply want to spend time with friends, it only takes a small group to create problems.

“I do know that there are gonna be a destructive crowd among all the ones who are respectful,” Damien said.

Parents are also watching the trend closely.

Ashley Tucker, a Collier County mother of four teenagers, said she focuses on maintaining open communication with her children rather than trying to prevent them from spending time with friends.

“It is scary knowing that anything could happen,” Tucker said.

She encourages her children to trust their instincts and leave situations that feel unsafe.

“If you ever feel something’s off, go with that gut feeling and get to safety,” Tucker said. “Tell somebody, call me, whatever it is that you need to do.”

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office recently posted a warning on social media about teen takeover events, noting that similar gatherings across the country have been linked to fights, property damage, traffic disruptions, injuries and arrests.

The agency says it uses social media monitoring, technology and community tips to identify planned gatherings before they happen.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has also announced that statewide prosecutors are developing a plan to investigate and prosecute people responsible for organizing takeover-style events.

The sheriff’s office is encouraging parents to talk with their children about making responsible choices this summer and understanding how quickly large gatherings can escalate.