02, 2023, 12:48 p.m. | Published: Mar. Spring breakers 'not taking anything over': WCSO addresses concerns She's seen some calm spring breaks and some crazy ones. Violence and fighting is strictly prohibited. You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter! George Santos Under Scrutiny CBS News App Longtime Panama City Beach residents and vacationers are speaking out against the violence that plagued their beloved beach town during the weekend. Story tips can be sent to stephanie.pagones@fox.com and on Twitter: @steph_pagones. Hatteras Beach, North Carolina, which has . Spring break rules begin March 1st in Panama City Beach For us, its a good thing because it scares the bazebras out of people like me, Bruyn said. But this year, Panama City Beach is a target for criminals. Beach police have been patrolling the area and say the. and last updated 6:56 AM, Mar 29, 2022 161 people were arrested during what some social media groups were calling "PCB Takeover" at Panama City Beach over the weekend. "It's not the right direction to move," Volkov said of the past weekend. In the five-day sting from May 18 to22, police said 13 people were charged withtraveling to meet a child for sexual activity,six were charged with possessing and/or disturbing child pornography,one was charged with felony drug and weapons charges, and one was arrested on a sexual battery charge out of Alabama. But it's not . Caught in the crossfire of chaos were residents and vacationing families. No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. Updated: Mar 1, 2023 / 07:43 PM CST. PANAMA CITY, Fla. ( WMBB) Panama City does not change any of its laws for Spring Break, but that doesn't mean local authorities aren't preparing. Panama City Beach is a resort town in Northwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico coast. All rights reserved. PANAMA CITY BEACH Restaurant owner DaveTrepanier, who has lived in Bay County for the past 15 years, described this weekend as "a glimpse into the bad past" of Panama City Beach, which once was known for the tens of thousands of party-crazed touristsit attracted every year during Spring Break. Here is how it works: Buy the Maniac VIP card based on your travel destination and receive over $500 in savings with: FREE CLUB COVER CHARGES, FREE & DISCOUNTED DRINKS, FREE CONCERTS, DISCOUNTS ON RESTAURANTS & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS! We encourage all residents and visitors to speak up. As beach safety director for Panama. You can cancel at any time. But, like most Panama City Beach. General, Fire & Police Pension Boards Meeting. Police Chief J.R. Talamantez warned visitors that the police will take swift action against individuals who come with ill intentions. Local businesses are fully aware of the laws in place and will act accordingly. In Panama City Beach, there are several spring break laws in place that started on March 1 and end on March 31. 1:38 PANAMA CITY BEACH With the spring break season here, Daryl Paul says it's crucial for everyone to follow the beach flag warning system. 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. Spring Break Is Already Getting Wild in Miami, Panama City, South Padre Officers from the Panama City Beach Police Department closed a two-mile stretch of Front Beach Road as of about 9 p.m. Saturday, as spring break crowds flooded the area, Chief J.R.. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. "I feel like (law enforcement)haven't handled it too great because there's been like a lot of people getting shot and places getting vandalized," Vanzuela said. Local bars and nightclubs working with law enforcement for Spring Break This is a resort town. Panama City Beach, Fla. (WMBB) With Spring Break getting into gear, traveling families and tourists are searching for the best place where they can get the most out of the World's Most . Legal Statement. "In the midst of thousands of people running through the boardwalk, we also had customers who were sitting down and enjoying their dinner," Hooker said. ", 160 arrests, 75 guns seized during PCB spring break, Residents, vacationing families caught in crossfire of PCB chaos, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. "I saw the old Spring Break, and I've seen the new Spring Break, (which was better until Saturday night).". 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Panama City Beach adopts 'spring break laws' after 'lawless' 2022 PANAMA CITY BEACH Local law enforcement officials say they will not tolerate tourists who bring crime to the Beach.. It resulted in non-life-threatening injuries to anunnamed 21-year-old from Alabama. All rights reserved. Loitering in parking lots or on the shoulder of the roadway is strictly prohibited. Spring break in Panama City Beach: What we know about the more - MSN or redistributed. The News Herald. For emergencies, dial 911. Officials say Spring Break in Panama City Beach is the best it's ever been WMBB News 13 16K views 5 months ago Alabama man shot in Panama City Beach WVTM 13 News 143K views 4. Chief Smith said they all might be separate agencies, but they can unify as one quickly. EVENTS. The city and Bay County have had special ordinances in place for Spring Break since 2016. Panama City Beach spring break riot, child-sex sting suspects arrested And you know, we raise our families here. Law enforcement officials said the arrests send a strong message to anyone coming to Panama City Beach with ill intentions. PANAMA CITY BEACH Sariah Hooker has lived in Panama City Beach for 12 years. Parking in closed businesses lots or city rights of way after dark is prohibited. (Joshua Comins/Fox News Digital). Panama City officials prepared for spring breakers, Panama City man charged with DUI after hitting SRO with car, Judge sets bond for 76-year-old woman accused of killing terminally ill husband, Man facing more charges after arrest on active warrants in Jackson County, Chipley falls in title game, South Walton beats Walton on the baseball diamond, Arnold falls on softball diamond. Riding on the exterior of vehicles, including sitting on the edge of window sills and standing up through the sun roof, is strictly prohibited. We dont rent to anyone whos under 21, clearly, Evans said. "I never expected this. "Have upfront raw communication with children. I still can't wrap my head around it," Hooker said. In a press conference on Sunday afternoon, Chief J.R. Talamantez of the Panama City Beach Police Department, Chief Mark Smith of the Panama City Police Department . Be responsible and act within the boundaries of the law. PANAMA CITY BEACH Fla. (WMBB) Spring breakers are in Panama City Beach and even with a pandemic, this year is no different. Other City ordinances which will be strictly enforced, according to the City, include: Talamantez said Panama City Beach police are patrolling all beach areas, assisted by PCB Code Enforcement and Beach Safety personnel. Yet, Campbell said it was a lot more intense than he realized. 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Music heard more than 25 feet away is illegal. Deaths, violence occur during Florida spring break "And then after that, my friend texted me, 'There's been a shooting,' and the road was closed down and then there's been another shooting. Panama City officials prepared for spring breakers We had a plan in place due to a large number of visitors over the weekend. WATCH: Crowds go crazy in Panama City Beach - YouTube Going by the stage name Diesel, he is scheduled to perform live during Spring Break in Panama City Beach on March 16 at Harpoon Harry's. At 7'1 and 325 pounds, Shaq's larger-than-life personality and powerful We encourage our residents to call our police dispatch if they need anything and to remember we are here as a city to protect everyone.. PANAMA CITY BEACH Law enforcement officials saymore than three dozen suspects have been taken off the streets in connection witha spring break riot at a BeachWalmart and a child-sex sting earlier this week. However, across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City, some of those same. It was a chaotic scene this weekend in Panama City as spring break crowds recklessly stormed the beaches and bars. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. Law enforcement agencies arrested more than 160 people and confiscated dozens of guns last weekend as revelers flocked to Florida's Panama City Beach for spring break . If something doesnt seem right it probably isnt, so use good judgement. Police added, The following are some of the ordinances that will be strictly enforced: The PCB Police Department would also like to offer some general safety tips for your personal safety. Operation Rogue Wave resulted in the arrest of 21men on various charges, with three other suspects still being sought on charges of transmitting harmful material to a child and solicitation of a child for sexual activity. Copyright 2022 WJHG. If your child will play baseball or softball this spring, youll need to stock up on appropriate clothing and equipment. Crockett said in her 16 years of living in the area, this is one of the most dangerous spring breaks she's seen. Spring break in Panama City Beach: What we know about the - Yahoo! News 75 guns seized from Panama City Beach Spring Breakers during - WEAR On Sunday afternoon, a 21-year-old from Alabama was shot in the foot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. "I felt unsafe in a place that I have called home for many years and that is a horrible feeling. For the month of March, no drinking on the beach?. To offer Spring Break events like never before, Southern Comfort will be living it up at Harpoon Harry's in Panama City Beach, . (Fox News Digital/Joshua Comins) The city is also prohibiting the sale of alcohol at liquor and beer stores after 6 p.m. until March 27. Local law enforcement officials announced Monday that they confiscated 75 illegal guns and arrested more than 160people throughout the weekend. Regardless of who it is, go to your own town and trash your own town, quit trashingours. Buy newspaper front pages, posters and more. It's the only pandemic-related restriction in place at the start of the busy month for tourism. I'd look at these condos that are right across the street from me, and I'd think 'There's families in there who have never been here before. Panama City Beach reminds beachgoers to follow flag - newsherald.com Florida law enforcement officials say they arrested 78 people from Alabama in Panama City Beach, Fla., over the weekend and confiscated 75 guns as spring break revelry devolved into chaos. "That's not just because we're scared of (those words). Panama City Beach Spring Break laws in effect - wjtv.com "These are not college spring breakers," Ford said. We don't need this.". ", 'What justice looks like in Bay County': 160 arrests, 75 guns seized during PCB spring break, 'Close down spring break': Residents, vacationing families caught in crossfire of PCB chaos. Panama City Beach ranked 10th cheapest beach destination in U.S. to YEAR END: Panama City Beach Spring Break boomed again, but was it wild The consumption or possession of alcohol is not allowed on the sandy beach during the month of March. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. As long as they follow through with that, I do not anticipate us passing any more laws.. Rogue Wave was amulti-agency operation involvingthe 14th Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office, the Bay County Sheriff's Office, the Panama City Police Department, the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the U.S. LikeTrepanier,Volkov said the weekend wasa reminder on why PCB officials have worked tirelessly during the past decade to rebrand the area into a family-friendly destination, and not a hotspot for lawless and rowdy tourists. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) Panama City Beach leaders reminded the public Wednesday that the "Spring Break" laws have begun and will be "strictly enforced." "Our goal is to. New ordinance aligns city, county, PCB in emergency situations in wake of spring break chaos, 161 people arrested in Panamaniac spring break weekend: Heres a breakdown of the charges, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. They face a variety of charges, including inciting a riot, felony criminal mischief, disorderly conductand theft during a riot-related disturbance. These are people who are not affiliated with any college and come to the area within driving distances. How crime in Panama City Beach signaled the end of Spring Break Panama City Beach prepares for spring break crowd The battle over Spring Break had been building for years as then-Sheriff Frank McKeithen, some local residents and others tried to. The event, which leaders say was dubbed by organizersas"Panamaniac," resulted in more than 160 arrests, the confiscation of 75 illegal guns, one shooting with non-life-threatening injuries and numerous closures of roads and businesses. Don't pretend we live in a world where evil does not exist because time and time again, you see that it does.". Panama City Beach Spring Break 22, 2022 at 8:59 PM PDT. If you see something, say something, if you see something that might indicate that somebody has those types of tendenciesand those interests that involve some type of sexual interest in children, we need to know about it. "And then they say it's not spring breakers,it's the 'hundred milers.' ', "It absolutely isn't, and it breaks my heart that they had to deal with these criminals this weekend. Panama City Beach's 'Alabama invasion': Alcohol rules targeted to Some specifically travel to prey on spring breakers. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. And we're gonna come kick your door in," Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford said. Here's the scoop. Carnival Cruise Line hopes its guests relax and have fun on its fleet up to a point. Florida deputies arrest over 160 in Panama City Beach during 'dangerous Use the buddy system and never leave your friends. For example, the sale of alcohol is allowed past 2 a.m. in Panama City, whereas in PCB it is not. He said police investigations show this same group visited the area last year and gathered at Sisters of the Sea Waterfront Bar & Grill. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. Panama City Beach Spring Break laws in effect - YouTube Published: Mar. FLORIDA SPRING BREAKERS CARRY ON IN PANAMA CITY, FAR AWAY FROM TROUBLES IN MIAMI BEACH. What's New in Panama City Beach in 2023? | TravelPulse Officials expect the largest crowds on March 23-27. He also said that while crime was rampant during the past weekend, things could have been a lot worse if it would not have been for the seamless teamwork of all local law enforcement agencies. "The sad thing about it was we had people who had prom reservations birthday reservations (and) anniversary reservations that we had to cancel just because of the lunacy that was going on.". "They were trying to have sex with children. Its all in an effort to keep the community safe. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Beach officials warn visitors of dangers ahead of Spring Break. "I see it getting worse because law enforcement can't keep up with the crowd," Crockett said. While the pastweekend's trouble makers were not traditional spring breakers, Ford noted that they were similar to what officials have referred to as the "hundred-milers." PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Two shootings and massive crowds of spring breakers have pushed the city of Miami Beach to declare a state of emergency. This is what they think our beach is. The Russell Fields City Pier has been designated as a nosmoking zone on both sides. We've been there and done that. A criminal record that will follow you beyond Spring Break. Talamantez said they are still investigating the case and looking for additional suspects. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. 'What justice looks like': 160 people arrested, 75 guns seized during chaotic PCB spring break weekend, 'A glimpse into the bad past': Panama City Beach businesses shut doors amid spring break chaos. We have partnered with our local businesses to close their parking lots when their businesses are closed or to close their doors early if needed. There was only one shooting, which Ford noted occurred off Front Beach Road. News provided by. While the area has a total population of only 15,000, it attracts more than 4.5 million visitors every year, who come to enjoy the hot summer sun and witness the various unique attractions . Panama City Beach Council members on Thursday unanimously approved an . If they see something that is not right, say something. Beach policecharged 15 people in theMarch 26riot at the Walmart at the intersection of Middle Beach and Front Beach roads. "That's the part that's disheartening," Sheldon said of tourists who now might not want to come back. Shaquille O'Neal is one of the most dominant basketball players in NBA history and is now also a larger-than-life entertainer! Panama City Beach resident Franis Vanzuelasaid she wants to see more places closedown, so the spring breakers can leave. For new residents, like Orlando-native Khalil Campbell, spring break was something they knew they would experience when moving to the area. Panama City Beach adopts 'spring break laws' after 'lawless' 2022 season Updated: Mar. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. "I would (come back here for vacation), but probably not like down to this area," Miller said. Panama City Beach, Florida, has long been deemed a mecca for spring breakers due to its dazzling 27 miles of soft, sugar-sand beaches, bountiful waterfront bars, and premier theme parties. Double red flags signify a ban on entry into the Gulf. Is that right? Bruyn said. Loud music which disturbs the peace is prohibited. Stephanie Pagones is a Digital Reporter for FOX Business and Fox News. These are criminals who came to our town to be lawless and create havoc, Sheldon said at the time, adding that we saw a lot of folks from Montgomery and Birmingham who came down to just create trouble.. We appreciate everyones cooperation and understanding.. Their sole intention is to break the law andcause havoc. . Tourism officials expecting to break revenue records this Spring Break One of them was Dianne Crockett, a Front Beach Road resident. As spring break season continues, many fear what is to come and if law enforcement is prepared. Florida spring breakers carry on in Panama City, far away - Fox News We "were driving down the road and there were these people getting pulled over and they were unloading an AR and everything," Hawkins said. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. Spring breakers play beach games at Panama City Beach. Bluegreen's Bayside Resort and Spa. Overnight scooter rentals are prohibited. While half of those arrested during spring break 2022 were Alabama residents, Panama City Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon suggested much of the lawbreaking came from people other than visiting college students. Those arrested for violating any of the above City ordinances will serve a minimum of one night in jail, with the potential to serve up to 60 days and pay a fine of up to $500. Those huge crowds caused roads to be shut down in Panama City Beach. Dont come here as a criminal and leave here and find yourself in the bay county jail or go home on probation and come back here and answer to the court system, Chief Smith said. In one reported incident, an Alabama man was shot in the foot. No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. PCB Spring Break: from chaotic to family-friendly - wjhg.com This pushed the "unsanctioned, unregulated and unpermitted special event" into Panama City, where it was held at Vibez. It was nothing to do with Spring Break. Panama City man charged with DUI after hitting SRO with car, Judge sets bond for 76-year-old woman accused of killing terminally ill husband, Man facing more charges after arrest on active warrants in Jackson County, Chipley falls in title game, South Walton beats Walton on the baseball diamond, Arnold falls on softball diamond. Spring breakers bring chaos to PCB: One injured in Front Beach shooting Marshals Service. According to police, the event resulted in. Alcohol sales will also stop at 2 a.m. during the entire month of March. Panama City Beach woman .