KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Law enforcement and a local roller rink are taking action ahead of a planned “teen takeover” that began circulating on social media earlier this week.
Teen takeovers have popped up across Central Florida — from Daytona Beach to Icon Park — drawing thousands of teenagers to locations after heavy online promotion. Some of the gatherings have resulted in fights, property damage, and strained public safety resources.
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Just last weekend, an annual Orange County community event meant to bring families together turned chaotic after a teen takeover.
Skate Reflections, a roller rink in Kissimmee, learned of a planned Saturday takeover at its facility. The rink posted on social media that it would not tolerate the behavior and announced it would bring in extra security to keep guests safe.
In a statement to News 6, the owners of Skate Reflections, Chris and Kari, said that they want the community to know that the rink is secure and safe, and they hope recent takeover headlines will not impact their summer camp or regular skate sessions.
“As new owners, we want to assure families and visitors that Skate Reflections is fully secured and operating as normal; [we] welcome everyone to attend!”
Kissimmee Police Chief Charles Broadway also weighed in, posting a video on social media to address the situation directly.
“We’ve seen across communities, disruptive gatherings and unsafe behavior that place people, businesses, and public safety resources at risk,” Broadway said in the video.
“I want to be very clear. Public safety remains our top priority. Unlawful, disruptive behavior that puts others at risk will absolutely not be tolerated in Kissimmee. Those who engage in criminal behavior will be held accountable.”
Broadway also addressed teens and their parents directly, calling for partnership in combating the takeover trend.
One Kissimmee community member said the trend is alarming.
“It’s just kind of like they take over and just like start acting up,” the resident said.
Skate Reflections will open Saturday with the added security presence. The organizer of the event — who promoted it without the rink’s knowledge — is currently under investigation, according to the rink.