Marshals Service. More than 100 people congregated in the Walmart parking lot during the riot and wereshown on video taking over the store. 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. Talamantez and Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon also said that one of the things they are most frustrated about is that this weekend might have scared off first-time visitors who do not know how hard officials have worked during the past decade to rebrand the area into a family-friendly destination. Panama City Beach. PANAMA CITY, Fla. ( WMBB) Panama City Beach is expecting a big boom in business with spring breakers and tourists soon coming to Bay County. For example, the sale of alcohol is allowed past 2 a.m. in Panama City, whereas in PCB it is not. Panama City Beach resident Franis Vanzuelasaid she wants to see more places closedown, so the spring breakers can leave. Talamantez said it is important for parents and teachers to monitor their children online and to have a talk with them about the dangers of online predators. Kyle Volkov, owner of Axe Throwing PCB, which also is in the Shoppes at Edgewater plaza, said he decided to close his businesson Saturday night as well. Panama City Beach adopts 'spring break laws' after 'lawless' 2022 season Updated: Mar. Alabama vacationers Kenzie Hawkins and Bre Millerhad to transfer to another motel afterviolence near the first motel. Unfortunately, you cant ban people from coming here and you never know the type of people who choose to vacation here," Hooker said. Drinking alcohol on the sandy beaches and behind the wheel is also not permitted. "And then afterwards, it took us over an hour to get home because all the roads were closed down. Updated: Mar 1, 2023 / 10:05 PM CST. By Katie Bente. Period," Talamantez said. Enter dates to see prices. We have to keep a little bit of a closer eye on that during spring break because those kids are on a budget.. If they are still wanting to continue their party atmosphere, they come over to the Panama City side to the adult establishments which are open for the extra two hours, Chief Smith said. Crowds remained on the sidewalks, while vehicular traffic was also heavy, he reportedly said. All rights reserved. NewsBreak provides latest and breaking Panama City Beach, FL local news, weather forecast, crime and safety reports, traffic updates, event notices, sports, entertainment, local life and other items of interest in the community and nearby towns. Some specifically travel to prey on spring breakers. 02. This pushed the "unsanctioned, unregulated and unpermitted special event" into Panama City, where it was held at Vibez. Although Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford said he could notgo into detail on exactly how he and other law enforcementofficialsknew about the event, he said they learned about it through social media. The consumption of alcohol in parking lots and in vehicles is not allowed. Talamantez noted that once his department learned about the "Panamaniac take over event," officers began warning local business owners. NOTE: The VIP cards once purchased will not be mailed. Don't pretend we live in a world where evil does not exist because time and time again, you see that it does.". (Joshua Comins/Fox News Digital). 5:14 MIRAMAR BEACH Gunfire erupted in Panama City Beach over the weekend, injuring one and causing concern among Panhandle residents as large crowds of spring breakers continue to flock. Be responsible and act within the boundaries of the law. Panama City Beach woman . Hawkins and Miller said they were nervous learning about all the events that were happening, scared they would get kidnapped with all the people running around at night. Regardless, residents can agree on one thing:They never want to experience this nightmare again. 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 provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our residents and visitors, said Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R Talamantez. "I saw the old Spring Break, and I've seen the new Spring Break, (which was better until Saturday night).". Three. ", Law enforcement responds to latest spring break violence in PCB, Law enforcement responds to shooting and latest spring break problems in Panama City Beach, 160 people arrested, 75 guns seized during chaotic PCB spring break weekend, Panama City Beach businesses shut doors amid spring break chaos, Man shot in the foot, over 50 guns seized amid spring break in Panama City Beach, Shooting in heart of spring break area prompts heavy police response, BCSO, PCB PD deploy 'every available resource' Saturday, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. PANAMA CITY, Fla. - With Miami Beach enforcing a strict curfew to curb a spike in spring break violence in one of the final weeks of the season, Panama City and other Florida beach. It was at that time the parking lotof the Shoppes at Edgewater was "so jammed full of these idiots," he said. 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. PANAMA CITY BEACH The Panama City Police Department warned potential Spring Break visitors Wednesday that officers will enforce the city's law with zero tolerance during the. 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. Any holes dug should be properly filled in for the safety of all. All rights reserved. "In general, it's a lot of fun here," Canadian Visitor Tony. Up to a $500 fine or imprisonment in the County Jail up to 60 days. Caught in the crossfire of chaos were residents and vacationing families. All rights reserved. But, like most Panama City Beach. All the suspects are from Alabama and range in age from 17 to 37. Ford, along with Beach Police Chief J.R. Talamantez, said because they cannot prevent who visits the area, it will be up to local businesses to help law enforcement curbany future outbreaks similar to the chaos of this past weekend. 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.. 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. You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter! "That's not just because we're scared of (those words). Best Spring Break Trip Locations for 2023. I feel like we are far better prepared going into this spring break than we have been in the past, Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith said. Panama City Beach is vacation destination, especially among people in the Southern United States.. A slew of rules are enforced throughout the entire month of March. Beach policecharged 15 people in theMarch 26riot at the Walmart at the intersection of Middle Beach and Front Beach roads. (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. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . PANAMA CITY BEACH Local law enforcement officials say they will not tolerate tourists who bring crime to the Beach.. "We went ahead and fed the people who were already in the restaurant, and then we started calling everybody who had later reservations and told them we (needed) to close for safety concerns,"Trepanier said. ", 'What justice looks like in Bay County':160 arrests, 75 guns seized during PCB spring break, Chaos inPCB:One injured in Front Beach Roadshooting, over 50 guns seized. "That's what this (was). We decided to try to invite them back.". However, across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City, some of those same. Spring breakers play beach games at Panama City Beach. "These people dont follow rules or laws. News provided by. According to police, the event resulted in. "When your customers can't get to you because the roads are blocked off because there's a crime scene, there's not a whole heck of a lot you can do.". The cruise line's updated contract follows a spate of unruly guest behavior across the tourism industry. Talamantez and other PCB officials are determined to avoid a repeat of last years spring break, when more than 160 people were arrested and some 75 weapons were confiscated. "They're coming from the regional area. She's seen some calm spring breaks and some crazy ones. Talamantez added that law enforcement officialswanted to get ahead of any issues beforethe Memorial Day weekend, saying they already have detected a potential issuefrom a local business owner. 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. Talamantez said crowds were not violent but some revelers were "acting a fool," according to the report. MORE NEWS . Trepanier said he, his staff and their customers at hisupscale Fireflyin the Shoppes at Edgewater plaza spent practically the entire weekend grappling with unrulycrowds set on creating chaos in Panama City Beach. 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. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. Is our economy doing better or worse? PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The Panama City Beach Police Department told NewsChannel 7 they are continuing to deal with large crowds of spring breakers. Its a really pretty beach. "We have approximately 100 officers from our agency, the Bay County Sheriffs Office, Lynn Haven Police Department, Panama City Police Department, and Florida Highway Patrol along with other surrounding agencies, to provide service to our residents, visitors, and businesses," the statement reportedly said. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. See recent changes in local employment, regional inflation and more in these regularly updated charts and maps. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. As beach safety director for Panama. Spring breakers pulled over by police along front beach road in Panama City beach, Florida. I expect a lot of partying and a lot of people having fun and things like that, but didn't expect the level of like vandalism and violence involved.". Market data provided by Factset. PANAMA CITY BEACH Sariah Hookerhas lived in Panama City Beachfor 12 years. THE ULTIMATE SPRING BREAK VIP CARD FOR 30 YEARS! The business then tried have normal business hours on Sunday, but with crowds still raging andportions of Front Beach Road closed, access to the restaurant was limited. Planning Board Meeting- Cancelled. 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. FLORIDA SPRING BREAKERS CARRY ON IN PANAMA CITY, FAR AWAY FROM TROUBLES IN MIAMI BEACH. Law enforcement officials in Bay County . Spring Break ordinances are in effect. If your child will play baseball or softball this spring, youll need to stock up on appropriate clothing and equipment. For new residents, like Orlando-native Khalil Campbell, spring break was something they knew they would experience when moving to the area. Funded by Bay Point Advisors, LLC, this brand-new Comfort . With 27 miles of sugar white beaches, this destination gem boasts some of the very best in nightlife, events, and hotel accommodations that will fit within any budget. Police may also temporarily close the beaches if things get out of hand. 08. Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R. Talamantez said, We are reminding locals and visitors alike. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. On Sunday afternoon, a 21-year-old from Alabama was shot in the foot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Buy newspaper front pages, posters and more. 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. PANAMA CITY BEACH Law enforcement officials say more than three dozen suspects have been taken off the streets in connection with a spring break riot at a Beach Walmart and a. In general, its a lot of fun here, Canadian Visitor Tony Bruyn said. PANAMA CITY BEACH Local law enforcement officials say while they knew weeks in advance that a potentially dangerous event was planned for this past weekend in Panama City Beach, they cannot control who visits the area. Since businesses in Panama City can stay open later in March, Chief Smith said he planned ahead before Spring Break season arrived. Walmart had closed down and it was just, it was a mess.". Panama City Beach spring break crowds By WJHG Newsroom Published: Mar. 02, 2023, 11:31 a.m. An image from a press conference. The small business specializes in golf cart rentals. "You can rest assured that if you're chatting with an underage person inBay County for the purposes of having sex, you're probably chatting with one of us and if you download child pornography, we're going to know about it. ", 160 arrests, 75 guns seized during PCB spring break, Residents, vacationing families caught in crossfire of PCB chaos, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Mar. Among the spring break laws now in effect include a prohibition on the sale of alcohol from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. Stephanie Pagones is a Digital Reporter for FOX Business and Fox News. Panama City Beach Police Department officials held a press conference Wednesday morning to unveil the arrests from Operation Rollback and Operation Rogue Wave. Local businesses are fully aware of the laws in place and will act accordingly. It then remained open on Sunday. Panama City Beach Council members on Thursday unanimously approved an . . "And then they say it's not spring breakers,it's the 'hundred milers.' Glasgow pleads guilty to federal tax evasion, mail fraud, and drug charges, Global race is on to improve EV range in the cold, Moscow reportedly threatened new parents in Ukraine: Register your newborns as Russian or else, The impact of climate change will be felt worse in these three U.S. cities. Music heard more than 25 feet away is illegal. Copyright 2022 WJHG. Over 1 Million College Students Can't Be Wrong! 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. These are people who are not affiliated with any college and come to the area within driving distances. No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Panama City Beach is a popular destination spot for tourists and spring breakers. 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.. "We weren't just seeing (criminals with) a 38 Special in the pocket. Law enforcement officials said the arrests send a strong message to anyone coming to Panama City Beach with ill intentions. Parking in closed businesses lots or city rights of way after dark is prohibited. 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. Some residents said they applaudlaw enforcement and government officials who have worked to get thelaw breakersoff the street. Legal Statement. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. - Rowdy spring break crowds have forced curfews and led some establishments to close their doors from Miami Beach to Florida 's Panhandle. 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. All local law enforcement agencies have partnered together for spring break. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. You can have fun here without being involved in illegal activities. "This is a perfect place away from the spring break crowd!". A shooting occurred during spring break in Panama City, March 28, 2015. "Honestly, I was blown away. 2023 www.newsherald.com. I have been meeting with the business owners of those late-night establishments and have been establishing some agreements with them that if it gets too bad that they are willing to close early, Chief Smith said. Violence and fighting is strictly prohibited. However, across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City, some of those same rules dont apply. According to PCBPD officials, rioters overturned shopping carts, raked items off store shelves, intimidated other shoppers and employees, and destroyed various areas of the store. (renews at {{format_dollars}}{{start_price}}{{format_cents}}/month + tax). "Maybe like farther up. Officials expect the largest crowds on March 23-27. "These individuals jumped at the opportunity to try to have sex with a kid; 24 in this small beach town were taken into custody," Talamantez said. City officials said in a statement on Saturday that they had "expected a large crowd" during the weekend and had formulated a plan, according to several local reports. The Oscars will air on ABC and can be streamed on ABC.com and the ABC app as well as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV or FuboTV. 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 . We appreciate everyones cooperation and understanding.. Alcohol sales will also stop at 2 a.m. during the entire month of March. An image from a press conference livestream shows some of the 75 weapons confiscated during one spring break weekend in Panama City Beach. Alcohol sales are not permitted after 2 a.m. and until 7 a.m. Loitering in parking lots or on the shoulder of the roadway is strictly prohibited. Published March 1, 2021 at 8:52 AM EST. From last years season, Robert Santrell Petty, 18, of Ozark, and Danyell Demetrice Reese, 26, of Headland, have outstanding arrest warrants in the coastal city. Mar. All rights reserved. "They were trying to have sex with children. Loud music which disturbs the peace is prohibited. We've been there and done that. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. The riot took place during a chaoticspring break weekend, where officers with the Beach Police Department, Panama City Police Department, Bay County Sheriff's Officeand Florida Highway Patrol confiscated 75 illegal guns and arrested more than 160people. We are a family-friendly destination and we want everyone to be safe.. And we're gonna come kick your door in," Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford said. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. "We want people to come to our community and enjoy our beaches and the many opportunities that we offer for recreation, but we do not want people to come here and think that they're going to terrorize our community like they may terrorize their communities back home," State Attorney Larry Basford said. Law enforcement officials have detained over 160 people in Panama City Beach following a spring break weekend that saw massive crowds of people disrupting the area, officials said. Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Everybody has to have a valid drivers license.. All rights reserved (About Us). And multiple businesses, including a Walmart store on Front Beach Road, shuttered early on Saturday, MyPanhandle.com reported. . "This act that he wants to bring to town has actually been investigated for a racketeering case involving homicide and money laundering, drug trafficking, a bunch of other things.".