TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Summer break is officially here, which means schools are out and students are enjoying their time off. Teens across the Tampa Bay area, and across the nation—are looking for ways to stay active and engaged. However, communities have recently seen a troubling rise in unruly behavior.
From Washington, D.C., to right here in Clearwater, there have been multiple reports of so-called “teen takeovers.” These gatherings are organized through social media, with large groups of teens planning to “take over” a community space and often causing disruptions. Most recently, a teenager was shot during one of these planned events at Clearwater Beach and businesses were forced to close down for the day.
Today on Rooted in Progress, St. Pete Police Chief Anthony Holloway joins the conversation to discuss how communities can combat teen takeovers. He’ll share alternative activities for young people and offer advice for parents on how to help keep their children—and our communities—safe…