'Teen Takeovers' Spark Action Among Metro ATL Leaders, Businesses

Planned "teen takeovers" have fueled action among leaders and businesses in metro Atlanta, with curfews being implemented across the area.

Police, government officials and local businesses are cracking down as "teen takeovers," during which large crowds of teenagers gather in a set location, continue to gain popularity in metro Atlanta.

It is uncertain where the concept originated, but the events almost always end in arrests. They are being promoted on social media platforms.

Most recently, South Fulton Police said the “Camp Creek Middle School takeover” was scheduled for Monday at Welcome All Park. Police warned against the idea.

The department wrote on Facebook:

"Let’s go ahead and clear that up early this morning:

• Officers are already in place
• Fulton County School Police have been notified
• The principal has already notified parents

So if somebody told you to skip school and 'pull up' to the park today…Twin… you might want to pull up to class instead. Because the only thing getting 'taken over' today is attendance. And if you do decide to test your luck anyway…Just know the only thing you might be taking over is a seat in the back of a patrol car while we call your mama-nem. Have a great day, Twin. Stay safe."

South Fulton Police also noted they were aware of two senior skip day events, one on March 27 and another on April 2.

For the latter, police said students from the following schools planned to participate:

• New Manchester High School, Douglasville
• McEachern High School, Powder Springs
• Langston Hughes High School, Fairburn
• South Cobb High School, Austell
• Westlake High School, Atlanta
• Douglas County High School, Douglasville
• Pebblebrook High School, Mableton

RELATED:

• 17 Arrested In 'Teen Takeover' At The Battery Atlanta
• 2 'Teen Takeover' Organizers Arrested, Cobb Police Say

Henry County and the City of McDonough implemented curfews over the weekend for anyone younger than 18-years-old, which both ended at 6 a.m. Monday. The takeovers were set for Friday through Monday, officials say.

“While we want our teens to enjoy the spaces and activities our city offers, we also must ensure that gatherings remain safe and responsible,” McDonough Mayor Kamali “Kam” Varner said in a statement. “As mayor, I stand with the county and our law enforcement community as they work to keep our communities safe. This is also a moment for all of us; parents, community leaders, and elected officials; to stay engaged so that our young people can enjoy McDonough and our county in positive and constructive ways.”

Atlanta Police on Friday said they anticipated more "teen takeovers" after 13 juveniles were arrested and 11 guns were recovered during the Feb. 28 takeover at the Atlanta Beltline. Charges included:

• Aggravated assault
• Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony
• Possession of a handgun by a person under the age of 18
• Theft by receiving stolen property (firearm)
• Obstruction
• Terroristic threats
• Reckless conduct
• Fleeing and attempting to elude
• Possession of marijuana (less than 1 ounce)

A 15-year-old accused of violating curfew was released to parents, police said.

"The Atlanta Police Department (APD) is aware of additional possible 'teen takeover' gatherings in our city and remains committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors. We strongly encourage teens to choose safe, positive alternatives where they can engage, learn and have fun," APD said in a statement Friday.

In Cobb County, local police said they are monitoring for the "Six Flags Takeover" set to take place Saturday.

During a past takeover at The Battery Atlanta, Cobb County Police said they arrested 17 people, eight adults and nine juveniles.

Businesses are attempting to combat the takeovers by mandating the supervision of teenagers.

Adults must now accompany teenagers younger than age 18 on the weekends at Cascade Skating, and Cumberland Mall initiated its own curfew for unaccompanied minors in the past.