The announcement of the event comes days after Tampa police arrested 22 people Friday night after a large “teen takeover” gathering at Curtis Hixon Park.
TAMPA, Fla. — WWE star and Tampa native Titus O’Neil is partnering with the Tampa Police Department to combat recent teen takeovers in the city.
In a social media post, O’Neil and Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw announced an event titled “Takeover with a Purpose,” with an emphasis on keeping local teenagers safe ahead of summer break as the school year ends.
The event is from 8 p.m. to midnight Friday at the Jackson Heights NFL Yet Center on East Lake Avenue. It will include food, movies, games and more.
The announcement of the event comes days after Tampa police arrested 22 people Friday night after a large “teen takeover” gathering at Curtis Hixon Park.
O’Neil and Bercaw stress that with summer about to start for students, it is important that teens stay safe and encourage parents to keep that in mind.
“When large takeovers happen, they pull critical resources away from other emergencies and public safety needs,” Bercaw said.
“Your involvement can make all the difference,” O’Neil said. “Know where your teens are, know who they’re with and talk with them about making safe choices this summer.”
22 arrested in downtown Tampa ‘teen takeover’
Officers say the crowd started fighting and caused major disturbances in and around Curtis Hixon Park.
Tampa police say they had to use patrol officers, bike units and their helicopter to get the crowd under control.
The 22 suspects — who are between the ages of 12 and 21 — face numerous charges, including possession of narcotics, resisting without violence and unlawful possession of a weapon.
Tampa police say they also seized two guns and a vehicle during the incident.
Recent local trend in teen takeovers
The trend isn’t isolated to Tampa. Similar incidents have recently occurred in Brandon and Jacksonville. During spring break in March, Hillsborough County deputies arrested 20 people during separate teen takeover incidents at Brandon businesses, including Astro Skate and Urban Air.
Charges connected to the gatherings have included trespassing, battery, resisting law enforcement, drug possession and firearm possession.
Officials are also urging parents to stay involved and monitor their children’s social media activity and whereabouts.
“It doesn’t just rely on law enforcement,” Bercaw said. “We need the community, the guardians, the parents all to do their part. Know where your youth are. Engage with them. What are they doing on social media? Have an app that tracks where they are. Just be engaged in what your youth are doing out there.”
10 Tampa Bay News’ Andy Paden and Jennifer Stanton contributed to this story.
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