LCSO has received word from multiple sources that a “Pop Up” Block Party is being planned for the East Williston Area for the late night hours of Friday, December 22, 2023. Deputies have reached out to community leaders and government officials in an attempt to convince potential organizers from bringing this activity back to our county.
In the past, organizers have concealed the location of the planned parties to avoid detection by law enforcement. The gathering, which may attract thousands of participants from throughout the state, then “Pops Up” to the surprise of citizens and law enforcement. So far no location of the planned Block Party has been announced on social media.
Similar gatherings have brought street blockages, noise complaints, open air drug usage and violence to Levy County. In September of 2020 six people were shot during the “All Gas” Block Party in East Williston. Those crimes remain unsolved.
In June of 2023, a “Pop Up” party occurred in the town of Lake Butler. During this event one person was shot, multiple businesses were closed and multiple law enforcement agencies were called on to restore peace.
LCSO will use all available resources including the strict enforcement of the Levy County Noise Ordinance, to keep the peace and insure that everyone can enjoy the Christmas Holiday. We request that anyone with information about potential illegal activity contact our office at 352-486-5111 or CrimeStoppers 1-877-349-8477. We wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas!