KISSIMMEE, Fla. – A Central Florida roller rink is on high alert tonight after a planned “teen takeover” began spreading on social media.
Skate Reflections in Kissimmee said it learned about the gathering online and contacted police, and extra security is in place ahead of Saturday night. After owners said they saw posts online promoting a “teen takeover” at Skate Reflections in Kissimmee, police and security increased their presence to try to prevent any trouble.
Teen takeovers across Central Florida have raised concerns for parents, including Michelle Garmon, who lives in Kissimmee.
“It really concerns me when we have groups of teens that don’t normally come here and cause issues,” Garmon said.
Authorities and business owners have linked some takeovers to fights, property damage and, in some cases, injuries. After the online posts about a possible takeover this weekend, owners and law enforcement said they were taking precautions.
Kari Lockett, a co-owner of Skate Reflections, said, “We’ve added extra security. We added six more security officers than we normally have. We usually have about four.”
Kissimmee police were seen Saturday night outside and inside the facility.
“By getting law enforcement involved and having security, it’s going to help this business so kids can come have fun instead of creating a disaster,” Garmon said.
In a message posted online this week, Kissimmee Police Chief Charles Broadway said people who cause disruptions will face consequences.
“Public safety remains our top priority. Unlawful, disruptive behavior that puts others at risk absolutely will not be tolerated in Kissimmee,” Broadway said.
Owners said the rink is operating as normal despite the online threats, but they are worried the attention could affect upcoming summer programs.
“If there is a takeover, that puts our business in a negative light, and parents will be scared to send their kids here,” Lockett said.
Lockett said the rink hopes added security will be enough to avoid implementing a chaperone policy similar to one used at Icon Park.
“We don’t really want to have to implement that. If we have to, we will. But honestly, at this point, we’re just going to have extra security and be safe and precautionary,” Lockett said.
Kissimmee police said there were no reported incidents Saturday night. Police said the person who promoted the event online without the rink’s knowledge is now under investigation.