On Thursday, the Panama City Beach Police Department (PCBPD) in Florida issued a news release to out-of-state media in an effort to spread its zero-tolerance policies for Spring Break. 

According to the release, PCBPD faced “large, unruly crowds, unauthorized gatherings and a rise in underage drinking and disorderly conduct” during Spring Break, with much of the incidents attributed to unsupervised high school students dropped off at vacation rentals by parents. 

As a result, PCBPD is implementing a strict zero-tolerance enforcement strategy. The key enforcement measures are listed below:

-Underage drinking, disorderly conduct and public disturbances will not be tolerated. Parents should know that if their child breaks the law, they will be arrested and face legal consequences. 

-High-impact beach areas will be closed at night to prevent unsafe overcrowding and disorderly gatherings. This includes the beaches behind Pier Park and Pineapple Willy’s.

-City ordinances will be aggressively enforced. Unauthorized parties, alcohol violations and reckless behavior will result in immediate law enforcement action.

-A strong police presence will be in place. Officers will be stationed throughout high-traffic areas and will take swift action to maintain public safety.