Gainesville Police Department encourages parents to tell their kids to avoid another “teen takeover”

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - The Gainesville Police Department is encouraging parents to talk to their kids about an upcoming “teen takeover.”

On July 3, GPD posted on Facebook that “A large crowd of teens and juveniles has gathered at Depot Park”. Officials say that several assaults were reported that day.

That pop-up party ended with five people arrested and two officers hurt. They were treated for cuts, scrapes, and bruises.

On social media, there have been posts advertising another teen takeover at Depot Park on Saturday, and one on Friday night at Skate Station.

It’s a nationwide issue. Earlier this month, a 19-year-old was killed, and 6 others were injured in Pensacola during a teen takeover.

GPD says on Facebook that Depot Park is supposed to be a safe place for the community to enjoy, and they intend to keep it this way.

“We would welcome the teens to peacefully gather in the park, and socialize, do things that teens do, get to know each other, meet new friends, exchange numbers, new places to hang out, new friends to do things with,” shared Art Forgey, Public Information Officer, GPD.

“But what ends up in these takeovers is they end up in fights, they end up rivals against rivals, and it becomes an out-of-hand gathering that endangers the safety of the community,” Forgey said.

Officials urge parents to talk to their children and emphasize good decision-making and the consequences of illegal behavior.

“I think it’s number one, the parents. And it falls directly on their shoulders. Hey, where are your children? What are they doing? Because ultimately you’re responsible for them,” Forgey shared. “So sit down and talk with them and let them know that this type of behavior is not acceptable.”

Alachua County Sheriff’s Office deputies deployed a camera system at the skating rink.

GPD will have increased patrols with officers in uniform and normal clothing, as well as using their drone system at Depot Park.

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