Hold parents, not social media, accountable for teen takeovers Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposal to tax social media companies to fund teen programs is criticized as ineffective for combating “teen takeovers.” Aldermen suggested stricter curfews and parental accountability as better solutions. Recent “teen takeover” events resulted in injured police officers and shootings, with many arrests but potential for lenient juvenile prosecution.

• Mayor Brandon Johnson proposes taxing social media companies to fund teen programs as a solution to “teen takeovers.”
• Aldermen favor stricter curfews and holding parents accountable for their children’s lawbreaking.
• Two “teen takeover” events over Memorial Day weekend led to injuries for five police officers and three teenagers being shot.
• Police made 53 arrests at the events, with 42 people charged, including 13 on felony counts.
• Concerns exist that the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office may favor deferred prosecution for juveniles, lessening consequences.