FLORIDA — Tampa Police Department officers arrested 22 people ranging in age from 12 to 21 after a large “teen takeover” gathering disrupted Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on Friday night.
According to police, the crowd caused major disruptions in and around the downtown Tampa park on May 8, including fights, disorderly behavior and other public safety concerns.
Officers were deployed to the area to disperse the crowd and restore order, the department said.
Authorities said the arrests involved charges including affray, possession of narcotics, resisting an officer without violence and unlawful possession of a weapon. Police also recovered two firearms and seized one vehicle connected to the disturbance.
In a statement, Tampa police said the growing “takeover” trend has become a concern for communities nationwide as summer approaches.
“Locally, we remain committed to supporting long-standing summer safety initiatives designed to keep young people engaged, connected, and safe,” the department said.
The investigation remains ongoing.
