HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. – Four teenagers were arrested following a large fight at the Brooksville Youth Opportunity facility on October 11th. Hernando County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the facility around 8 p.m. after reports of a major altercation involving several juvenile residents and staff members.
The scene at the facility was described as chaotic, with the cafeteria in disarray from the fight. According to staff, juveniles were throwing garbage cans and food trays during the altercation. Several staff members were reportedly battered while trying to restrain the juveniles.
READ: Body Of Missing Spring Hill Woman Found In Submerged Vehicle In Pasco County
The investigation revealed what authorities called “deplorable living conditions” at the facility, including no power or air conditioning, juveniles sleeping on the floor due to the heat, and floodwaters surrounding the building. A fallen tree had also damaged one of the dormitories where six to ten juveniles were still housed. The power outage and flooding were attributed to Hurricane Milton.
Detectives notified the Department of Children and Families (DCF) about the incident and the conditions at the facility.
READ: Brooksville Drug Dealer Busted After Months-Long Investigation: Hernando County Sheriff
Four juveniles were arrested and charged with affray/riot and, in one case, battery on detention staff. Despite the seriousness of the incident and the conditions at the facility, all four juveniles were released back to the facility for “home detention” at the direction of the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).
The investigation is ongoing, and more charges may be filed.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.