BROOKSVILLE, Fla. – A large-scale fight erupted at the Brooksville Youth Academy on July 28th, 2024, leaving several juveniles injured and resulting in multiple arrests. The private facility, which provides residential treatment for male youth with mental and behavioral needs, saw chaos unfold as dozens of juveniles engaged in a brawl across multiple dormitories and the courtyard.
Hernando County Sheriff’s deputies, along with assistance from Pasco County deputies and Florida Highway Patrol troopers, responded to the scene shortly after 11 a.m. Staff members at the facility had attempted to intervene but were unable to quell the violence.
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Law enforcement worked to restore order and provide medical attention to injured juveniles and staff. Four juveniles were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from lacerations to a fractured nose and concussion. An adult staff member also sustained an ankle injury after being trampled and pinned in a doorway.
Following an investigation, detectives determined that the incident began when a group of juveniles being escorted to their dormitory initiated a fight in the courtyard, quickly escalating to involve other dormitories. Several improvised weapons were confiscated during the incident.
Eighteen juveniles were arrested and charged with offenses including riot, battery on facility staff, and battery on a law enforcement officer. Two juveniles, Owin Cramer and Eric Mireles, face attempted murder charges due to the severity of their actions during the fight. One juvenile was also found to have an outstanding warrant for sexual battery unrelated to the incident.
The incident remains under investigation, with detectives in contact with state agencies and oversight organizations. The Brooksville Youth Academy is cooperating fully with law enforcement to address the incident and prevent future occurrences.
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