Rep. Berny Jacques spoke at a press conference in Pinellas County Thursday alongside Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier to condemn “teen takeovers,” a trend in which large groups of teenagers use social media to coordinate gatherings at beaches, parks and other public spaces.
A May 31 gathering at Clearwater Beach ended in fights and the shooting of a 17-year-old, raising concerns among local law enforcement agencies and elected officials.
During the press conference, Jacques declared that “public order must be maintained.” In a follow-up interview with Poliverse, he outlined what he believes law enforcement should do when authorities become aware of a planned takeover event.
“What we saw in Clearwater Beach is a textbook example of what we’re trying to prevent,” Jacques said.
“Law enforcement should be visibly present in the areas where they know it’s going to occur,” he said. “(And they) should respond in strong numbers where these teens start to congregate in large numbers, and order them to disperse,” Jacques said.
For those who refuse, Jacques said arrests should follow. “Swift arrests for noncompliance.”
The Clearwater Beach incident has intensified debate over how communities should respond to gatherings that often begin as social media-organized meetups but can escalate into violence, property damage or other criminal activity.
Jacques said accountability extends beyond law enforcement and “starts at home.”
“Good upbringing and involved parents will go a long way.”
However, he stopped short of placing responsibility squarely on parents. “That said, lack of a good home life is no excuse for criminal behavior and everyone who did something wrong must be held accountable.”
Jacques did not endorse a specific legislative proposal but indicated he is open to a range of options as lawmakers and local officials consider how to address future incidents.
“All options are on the table,” he said.