Why Are So Many Spring Breakers Getting Arrested?
Spring break is a magical time of the school year whether you travel, catch up on sleep, or spend quality time with Netflix. But for some, spring break could include a little jail time as well, sitting uncomfortably close to someone who's clearly been arrested on more than a few occasions.
In an effort to make the beaches more safe, law enforcement is cracking down on alcohol-related crimes, including underage drinking. So, if you're headed to the water, make sure you're aware of the local laws. Otherwise, your spring break album may include an unfortunate mug shot.
Hundreds of Arrests
In Panama City Beach, the police have made hundreds of arrests, many of which were for underage drinking, drinking on the beach, and public drunkenness. At least 220 arrests occurred in just the first two weeks of March alone.
In a post that went viral March 17th, the Okaloosa Sheriff's Office tweeted a picture of 14 fresh-faced teens smiling on their way to jail during spring break. They, too, had been arrested for underage drinking and clearly grasped the severity of their situation.
Full bus of 14 #SpringBreak arrests by 2:40 PM today. We remind you we have #ZeroTolerance for underage drinking! 21 is the law -and it's strictly enforced for your safety and the safety of those around you. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ pic.twitter.com/tPso6vC8Bq
-- OkaloosaSheriff (@OCSOALERTS) March 17, 2018
Know the Rules
No one wants to explain an arrest record or conviction to a college admissions office or a prospective employer. So, have fun on spring break, but know the local laws before you head out.
Panama City Beach's applicable laws for the month of March include the following:
- No alcohol allowed on beaches
- No alcohol sales at bars and restaurants past 2 a.m.
- No underage patrons inside any establishments serving alcohol after midnight, except certain military personnel
- Police can stop a house party causing noise, litter, etc., or where minors have access to alcohol
If you've been arrested for underage drinking or any other offense, contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Related Resources:
- Find Criminal Defense Lawyers Near You (FindLaw's Lawyer Directory)
- Getting Arrested Checklist: Have My Rights Been Violated? (FindLaw's Learn About the Law)
- DUI Laws and Resources (FindLaw's Learn About the Law)
- Top 7 Tips to Avoid a Spring Break DUI (FindLaw's Blotter)