Authorities made more than 120 arrests over the weekend as part of ongoing crackdowns on disorderly conduct among spring breakers in Fort Lauderdale and Daytona Beach, Florida.
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In Fort Lauderdale, nine arrests were recorded over the weekend, increasing the season’s total to 47, according to a police spokesperson. The Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco issued 12 new notices to appear, bringing the total to 29 for the spring break period. Charges include trespassing, open container violations, and assault and battery.
Meanwhile, Daytona Beach saw 75 arrests, including 12 felony charges and 15 narcotics-related arrests, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office reported. This follows a recent state of emergency declaration after authorities made more than 100 arrests the previous week amid several unsanctioned beach “takeover events” organized on social media.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young stated that the city no longer intends to promote itself as a spring break destination, citing concerns over unsanctioned high-risk behavior that strains public safety resources and disrupts the community.
The crackdown response came after viral videos depicted chaotic and violent scenes among large crowds of spring breakers. One viral clip showed thousands fleeing what was initially believed to be gunshots, later identified as water bottles being crushed. Another video captured a group of college students assaulting a man outside a Fort Lauderdale bar, according to police.
Both Fort Lauderdale and Daytona Beach have implemented curfews for individuals under 18 to reduce disturbances. Local officials emphasize efforts to deter underage drinking, drug use, and public disorder, assigning over 200 officers in affected areas during peak periods. Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood has vowed legal actions against organizers of unauthorized events, including financial penalties.
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