Cobb County police have arrested two additional suspects in connection with an illegal “teen takeover” at The Battery, as officials work to prevent another large gathering rumored for this weekend.
Police said the two suspects, both 17-year-old males identified as the organizers of the Feb. 21 event, were arrested Wednesday and charged with riot. Both were charged as adults and booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center before being released. Investigators say the case remains active and additional charges are possible.
RELATED: Cobb police brace for new ‘teen takeovers’ after 17 arrests at The Battery
The new arrests come after 17 teenagers and adults were previously charged following last weekend’s gathering, where more than 100 teens converged on The Battery. Authorities said the event disrupted businesses, strained public safety resources and led to multiple arrests involving weapons, theft and obstruction.
In response to ongoing concerns, Cobb County police say they are increasing patrols and monitoring social media for signs of another planned takeover. Cumberland Mall has also announced a temporary curfew, requiring all visitors under 18 to be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 3 p.m. Saturday.
Cobb County Commissioner Erick Allen said law enforcement agencies coordinated quickly during the previous incident to restore order and emphasized the importance of parental involvement.
“We hope that this weekend parents will have conversations with their kids and that they are orderly and respectful,” Allen said. “If they’re not, there will be consequences.”
