No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. Be responsible and act within the boundaries of the law. In general, its a lot of fun here, Canadian Visitor Tony Bruyn said. (Joshua Comins/Fox News Digital). "These are not college spring breakers," Ford said. Dont accept anything from someone you dont know. The PCB Police Departments non-emergency number is (850) 233-5000. Spring Break. 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.. 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. "With Panama City to Gulf Shores banning drinking on the beach in March and being anti-college spring break, South Padre Island is BOOMING," the website, which charges $65 for a "Party . This is not our community.' Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Buy newspaper front pages, posters and more. During a chaotic Saturday night and Sunday evening, officers with the Beach Police Department, Panama City Police Department, Bay County Sheriff's Office and Florida Highway Patrol confiscated 75 illegal guns and arrested more than 160people. Seller, buyer, property location, total purchase price, date. All rights reserved. Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. 26, 2022 at 8:51 PM PDT PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The Panama City Beach Police. 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. Crowds remained on the sidewalks, while vehicular traffic was also heavy, he reportedly said. Metal shovels and holes deeper than two feet are not permitted on the beach. The company is informing customers ahead of spring break that unruly passengers could be hit with a $500 fine . We are a family-friendly destination and we want everyone to be safe.. 02, 2023, 12:48 p.m. | Published: Mar. Legal Statement. We interviewed our tech expert, Jaime Vazquez, to learn more about accessible smart home devices. "As I was walking through the crime scenes Sunday, all I could think about is 'This is not our beach. At Wednesday's meeting, Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith showed fliers for a couple of such events, one a "spring break takeover" at a Panama City Club called Vibez on March 26, the. 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. News provided by. Im just here for the sun and fun.. 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 . or redistributed. 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. 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 were seeing (them) with rifles in backpacks.". Spring breakers drive up and down S Pier Park Drive enjoying the nightlife in Panama City Beach, Florida. The small business specializes in golf cart rentals. Don't pretend we live in a world where evil does not exist because time and time again, you see that it does.". "It's not the right direction to move," Volkov said of the past weekend. On Sunday afternoon, a 21-year-old from Alabama was shot in the foot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. 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. Talamantez confirmed to MyPanhandle.com. In the adjoiningrestaurant, she said workers were having an even harder time. You have permission to edit this article. However, things may take a turn for those who dont follow PCBs spring break ordinances. 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 . And we're gonna come kick your door in," Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford said. 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.. "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. For example, the sale of alcohol is allowed past 2 a.m. in Panama City, whereas in PCB it is not. Spring Break ordinances are in effect. Period," Talamantez said. Updated: Mar 1, 2023 / 10:05 PM CST. Ocean City Beach, Maryland, which has free parking, $7.97 sunscreen, $2.08 sodas, $64.18 accommodations and a total nightly price per person of $77.23. Spring breakers pulled over by police along front beach road in Panama City beach, Florida. We have to keep a little bit of a closer eye on that during spring break because those kids are on a budget.. 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. Use the buddy system and never leave your friends. Panama City Beach. "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.". All rights reserved. PANAMA CITY, Fla. ( WMBB) Panama City Beach is expecting a big boom in business with spring breakers and tourists soon coming to Bay County. Caught in the crossfire of chaos were residents and vacationing families. 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. ( WMBB) Massive crowds forced road closures and led many local businesses to close early on Panama City Beach over the weekend. As well as they are going to work diligently with the police department and the fire department to maintain their numbers within the inside and handle their own internal security.. 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 huge crowds caused roads to be shut down in Panama City Beach. Panama City Beach expected a large crowd this weekend. All the suspects are from Alabama and range in age from 17 to 37. "One of the preparations that we did is we spoke to a business owner and local community about the certain act that he wants to bring to town," Talamantez said. 4 min read PANAMA CITY BEACH Local law enforcement officials say while they knew weeks in advance that a potentially dangerous. It's not just residents who are concerned. Law enforcement officials in Bay County said Sunday . Ive seen the police presence, and Ive seen the people scatter.. Yet, Campbell said it was a lot more intense than he realized. The Russell Fields City Pier has been designated as a nosmoking zone on both sides. Anyone who is caught in possession. Chief Talamantez wants visitors to have a good time but also abide by the following restrictions: Climbing, jumping off, or throwing anything from balconies is illegal. Climbing, jumping from, or throwing things from balconies is not allowed. Spring breakers play beach games at Panama City Beach. But this year, Panama City Beach is a target for criminals. A spring break party in the Florida Panhandle turned violent early Saturday after seven people, including at least three college students, were shot at a Panama City Beach house, officials said . But it's not . Violence and fighting is strictly prohibited. Its all in an effort to keep the community safe. Answer Man: Is it illegal to take pictures of people without their permission? 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. All rights reserved. "And then afterwards, it took us over an hour to get home because all the roads were closed down. At a press conference on Monday, law. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (AP) Authorities in Panama City Beach said 75 guns were seized and 161 people were arrested during a rowdy Spring Break weekend. Its a really pretty beach. Panama City Beach 17007 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-5100 ADA/EEO/Fair Housing Coordinator . We don't need this.". A Dothan man has been arrested and charged with one count of rape. 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. In one reported incident, an Alabama man was shot in the foot. However, across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City, some of those same rules dont apply. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Panama City Beach Council members on Thursday unanimously approved an . "This is a perfect place away from the spring break crowd!". "And then they say it's not spring breakers,it's the 'hundred milers.' In response to the many circulating social media posts that. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Marshals Service. PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Law enforcement agencies are doing everything they can to make sure spring break doesnt get out of hand again. Loud music which disturbs the peace is prohibited. THE ULTIMATE SPRING BREAK VIP CARD FOR 30 YEARS! There was an agreement that hey we are responsible for enforcing what we need to enforce on our property and with ever activities happen on our property, Panama City Commissioner Josh Street said. "It has, without a doubt, been bad in the past, but for the first timelocals felt the need to shut down their businesses, which I think says a lot about how out of control this situation truly is," said Hooker, a gift shop manager. The cruise line's updated contract follows a spate of unruly guest behavior across the tourism industry. This pushed the "unsanctioned, unregulated and unpermitted special event" into Panama City, where it was held at Vibez. ", 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. "We utilized that video to help identify them. However, across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City, some of those same. But, like most Panama City Beach. We had a plan in place due to a large number of visitors over the weekend. You can have fun here without being involved in illegal activities. The city and Bay County have had special ordinances in place for Spring Break since 2016. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Panama City Beach is a popular destination spot for tourists and spring breakers. Beach officials warn visitors of dangers ahead of Spring Break. Panama City Beach in Florida makes for the most exciting spring break for being a unique party hub where people are promised to have the time of their life. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. Between Saturday and Sunday, 75 illegal guns were confiscated and more than 160 people were arrested in Bay County about half of whom were from Alabama. Arrest and at least one night in the County Jail. Overnight scooter rentals are prohibited. PCB Spring Break: from chaotic to family-friendly. "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. All rights reserved. We dont rent to anyone whos under 21, clearly, Evans said. Drinking alcohol on the sandy beaches and behind the wheel is also not permitted. We appreciate everyones cooperation and understanding.. Dogs are only allowed at the designated Dog Beach west of the City Pier. Copyright 2023 WJHG. "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.". (Joshua Comins/Fox News Digital), Police break up spring break crowd at Panama City Beach. 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. 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. Everybody is positive.. Low speed vehicles must follow the rules of the road and are not allowed on Hutchison Boulevard or Panama City Beach Parkway. 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. If your child will play baseball or softball this spring, youll need to stock up on appropriate clothing and equipment. Talamantez said the business owner will get back to him this week about the event. An image from a press conference livestream shows some of the 75 weapons confiscated during one spring break weekend in Panama City Beach. Among the spring break laws now in effect include a prohibition on the sale of alcohol from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. Talamantez said they are still investigating the case and looking for additional suspects. Panama City Beach is limiting the number of people who may gather together on the sand during spring break. At Panama City Beach, no alcohol is allowed on beaches, bars will close at 2 a.m., rather than 4 a.m., and special events will have no more than 125 people. . See recent changes in local employment, regional inflation and more in these regularly updated charts and maps. 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. This is what they think our beach is. Spring breakers pulled over by police along front beach road in Panama City beach, Florida. "These people dont follow rules or laws. The News Herald. Beach policecharged 15 people in theMarch 26riot at the Walmart at the intersection of Middle Beach and Front Beach roads. We've been there and done that. Beach police were joined by multiple agencies for the two operations. 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. Chief Smith said they all might be separate agencies, but they can unify as one quickly. 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. TheBeach experienced an onslaughtof what are being dubbed "true criminals" onFriday evening,complete with a shooting, crowdsand even a stampede at the Walmart at the intersection of Front Beach and Middle Beach roads. "I remember, well, I was mainly at home, but I passed one time while I was heading to the grocery store and it was very chaotic and truly something I've never seen before,"Campbell said. "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. Is our economy doing better or worse? Southern Comfort Mar 02, 2023, 08:30 ET . Among those arrested in 2022 were 15 people involved with a riot at a PCB Walmart officials said was instigated by social media influencers. Florida spring break revelers crowded parts of Panama City Beach on Saturday night, prompting police to descend upon the area and causing several businesses to close for the day, according to a local report. #1 Best Value of 12 Spring Break Resorts in Panama City Beach. PCBPD releases statement on spring break crowds, 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. PANAMA CITY BEACH An influx of crime this weekend during spring break in Panama City Beach led to more than 160 arrests in Bay County. Here's the scoop. "I see it getting worse because law enforcement can't keep up with the crowd," Crockett said. Local officials said the city was targeted by a group of . 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." We "were driving down the road and there were these people getting pulled over and they were unloading an AR and everything," Hawkins said. Regardless of who it is, go to your own town and trash your own town, quit trashingours. 1. According to the department, they are working with the Bay County Sheriffs Office, Lynn Haven Police Department, the Florida Highway Patrol, Panama City Police Department along with other surrounding agencies. There was only one shooting, which Ford noted occurred off Front Beach Road. ', "It absolutely isn't, and it breaks my heart that they had to deal with these criminals this weekend. FLORIDA SPRING BREAKERS CARRY ON IN PANAMA CITY, FAR AWAY FROM TROUBLES IN MIAMI BEACH. Three. We've seen when somebody calls something a takeover what can happen. 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. . 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.. Petty is wanted for carrying a concealed firearm; Reese is wanted for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, carrying a concealed firearm, and resisting without violence. 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. ", '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. "That's what this (was). There is no alcohol allowed on the sandy beach during the month of March. According to police, the event resulted in. No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. PANAMA CITY BEACH Fla. (WMBB) Spring breakers are in Panama City Beach and even with a pandemic, this year is no different. "So actually, last year, we did have a record-breaking spring break here," Banks said. 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. To offer Spring Break events like never before, Southern Comfort will be living it up at Harpoon Harry's in Panama City Beach, . In Panama City Beach, there are several spring break laws in place that started on March 1 and end on March 31. "Have upfront raw communication with children. Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. PANAMA CITY BEACH An influx of crime this weekend during spring break in Panama City Beach led to more than 160 arrests in Bay County. Published March 1, 2021 at 8:52 AM EST. 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 Police warn visitors ahead of Spring Break season. Florida's beaches and bars are already seeing the first throngs of college students on break, crowding beaches and bars - and worrying public health experts around the country who see the weeks. Talamantez said crowds were not violent but some revelers were "acting a fool," according to the report. For us, its a good thing because it scares the bazebras out of people like me, Bruyn said. The consumption or possession of alcohol is not allowed on the sandy beach during the month of March. General, Fire & Police Pension Boards Meeting. Local officials said the city was targeted by a group of lawbreakers. PANAMA CITY BEACH The Panama City Police Department warned potential Spring Break visitors Wednesday that officers will enforce the citys law with zero tolerance during the upcoming season. For the month of March, no drinking on the beach?. 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 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. "I saw the old Spring Break, and I've seen the new Spring Break, (which was better until Saturday night).". PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) Panama City Beach police are holding a news conference about the ongoing situation on the beach. 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. 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. Panama City Beach spring break crowds By WJHG Newsroom Published: Mar. Show prices. Panama City Beach has the following accommodations new and newly renovated for 2023: Comfort Inn & Suites - Now Open. Updated: Mar 1, 2023 / 07:43 PM CST. "That's not just because we're scared of (those words). PANAMA CITY BEACH Sariah Hookerhas lived in Panama City Beachfor 12 years. Music should not be audible from 25 feet away. "Honestly, I was blown away. Parking in closed businesses lots or city rights of way after dark is prohibited. College students gather in Panama City Beach, FL during spring break in March 2020. Be responsible and act within the boundaries of the law. We encourage all residents and visitors to speak up. 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. 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