More than 1,000 teenagers gathered at ICON Park over the weekend in a “takeover” event, resulting in multiple fights, a heavy law enforcement response, and several arrests.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, fights broke out around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 25. More than 50 deputies were deployed to help break up altercations and control the situation, and spent hours working to disperse the crowd.
During the response, two deputies were injured while intervening in fights. Both were transported to a local hospital for treatment, later released, and are expected to fully recover, the sheriff’s office said.
Officials confirmed that nine individuals were arrested, ranging in age from 13 to 16. While individual charges were not released, the sheriff’s office said they include battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer with and without violence, affray, and trespass after warning.
Authorities noted they were aware in advance of the planned gathering at ICON Park on April 25 and had deputies stationed in the area. However, they said the scale of the turnout and the resulting violence exceeded expectations.
The sheriff’s office also stated it is aware of another planned teen “takeover” scheduled for May 9 at ICON Park. Officials said they will have an increased law enforcement presence in place.
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