Jacksonville, FL – More than 200 teenagers gathered at Blue Cypress Park in District 2 on March 18 for a so-called “teen takeover,” prompting intervention by Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officers.

Body-worn camera footage shows fights breaking out among the teens. Officers who were already nearby moved in to stop the violence. Three teenage girls were arrested for their involvement in the clashes.

Park visitors were forced to leave as the situation quickly spiraled out of control. Authorities emphasized that such incidents are taken very seriously.

The sheriff’s office monitors social media for planned takeovers, but officials urged parents to stay aware of their children’s activities and companions. “It’s very easy to see the difference between a legitimate event and one of these ‘takeovers,’” they said.

Authorities warned teenagers considering future takeovers that such gatherings will be monitored and prevented.

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