KDSN Radio

The Storm Lake Police Department has recently seen an uptick in youth violence in our public spaces, specifically fights involving groups of juveniles.

 

What’s even more concerning is that these altercations are being recorded and shared on social media platforms.

 

This trend is dangerous.

 

By recording and sharing these fights, our youth are not only putting themselves at risk, but they are also normalizing and sensationalizing violent behavior.

 

This is not the kind of community we want to foster.

 

Parents, we need your help!

 

It's important for you to know what your kids are doing, who they are hanging out with, and what's on their phones.

 

Talk to your kids about the consequences of their actions and monitor their online activities.

Understand that moving forward, if three or more people gather in a public place and any of them act in a violent manner, with intent to commit any public offense, they could be arrested and charged with unlawful assembly. This includes individuals gathering to watch, record, or participate in a fight or any other public offense.

 

Recording illegal activities may result in the seizure of your child’s cell phone.

We've been working closely with our schools, juvenile court, and the County Attorney's Office and are committed to taking action against those who assemble in groups to participate in, encourage, watch, promote, or record any public offense, including fights, riots, criminal mischief or any other crimes.

 

We encourage members of the public to call the police when they see fights occurring within our community. If you see something, say something.

 

Let's work together to stand together against youth violence.