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Dear FAA Members,
Recent incidents across Florida and the country serve as an important reminder that attractions, entertainment venues, beaches, and shopping districts can become the target of organized "teen takeover" events coordinated through social media. A small number of our members have experienced such an incident and all our members should prepare now.
I encourage you to take a few moments to review your contingency plans with your leadership and security teams. Consider the following:
- Monitor public social media platforms for posts encouraging large, unplanned gatherings at your attraction.
- Review crowd management, guest communication, and emergency response procedures.
- Confirm that your security staffing and operational plans can be adjusted quickly if needed.
- Meet proactively with your local law enforcement agency to discuss response protocols and ensure they are familiar with your property, access points, and emergency procedures.
- If your attraction is located near other entertainment venues or public gathering spaces, coordinate communications with neighboring businesses whenever practical.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier recently announced a statewide initiative to address organized "teen takeover" events by working closely with local law enforcement agencies. Rather than focusing solely on individuals who commit crimes during these gatherings, the initiative seeks to identify and prosecute those who organize and promote these events online. The FAA supports AG Uthmeier’s tough stance on these takeovers.
The Attorney General has directed the Office of Statewide Prosecution to provide investigative resources, legal guidance, subpoena authority, and prosecutorial support to local police departments and sheriffs' offices. Local agencies will continue to lead on-the-ground operations while the state assists in building cases against organizers of coordinated criminal activity. Authorities have emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward violence, vandalism, and other criminal acts associated with these events.
Most importantly, this is not intended to create concern but to encourage preparedness. Florida's attractions have long been recognized as among the safest and best-managed destinations in the world. A few minutes spent reviewing plans today can help protect your guests, your team members, and your reputation should an organized event ever be directed toward your property.
As always, if the Florida Attractions Association can assist your organization by sharing information or connecting you with industry colleagues, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Best regards,
Bill
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