JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville law enforcement officials are warning families about the rise of teen “takeover” events after hundreds of young people gathered on the Southbank, prompting police intervention.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office shared videos on social media showing large crowds of teens congregating near Friendship Fountain, where some participants engaged in what officials described as “problematic behavior.”
Since then, social media posts have been circulating about an alleged “Fight Fest,” a rumored event at Friendship Fountain encouraging people to gather and fight, though no such events have been reported yet.
“Make sure you’re at home if you’re under age before curfew because we are going to start arresting them,” Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters said ahead of his community town hall this week.
Waters emphasized the need to change attitudes about these gatherings. “We got to stop making them think that it’s OK. Because it’s not.”
State Representative Angie Nixon weighed in on the situation, saying, “Our kids need us to spend more time with them. Please do so if you can.”
Similar incidents have occurred across the region. Last month, the Orange Park Mall was forced to shut down for the day after the Clay County Sheriff’s Office had to disperse a large gathering.
JSO took to Facebook to address parents directly, stating: “Parents, have the conversation. Stay involved. Know the curfew laws. Your JSO is keeping watch, but we need your help!”
Officials remind residents that anyone under 18 cannot be out past curfew - 11:00 p.m. on weeknights or after midnight on weekends unless accompanied by an adult or at activities such as work.
