On October 29, 2024, a troubling incident in Neptune Beach, Florida, showed how important it is for parents to help guide their teens to behave respectfully and follow the law. An 18-year-old was arrested for reportedly using a machete to scare two older women who were supporting a Democratic campaign at an early voting site. He and a group of friends had gone to the polling site to bother the campaigners, but things got worse when he waved the machete at two women, aged 71 and 54. Now, he faces serious legal consequences, including charges for felony aggravated assault and third-degree felony voter intimidation.
The Role of Parents in Condemning Violent Behavior
I know that at 18 years old, he is already an adult. However, this type of entitled behavior likely stems from an entitled upbringing where parents did not enforce any consequences for their child’s actions. We all know kids do stupid things, but to a certain degree it is the parent’s responsibility to guide their kids away from doing anything too stupid. Teens, especially those entering adulthood, may feel a strong urge to express their opinions—often passionately. However, it’s essential that they learn to do so in a way that respects others’ rights and remains within the law. For parents, that means being actively involved in discussions about civic engagement and responsible behavior.
Parents play a critical role in helping teens navigate these high-stakes situations. Open conversations about how to express opinions respectfully, even when they disagree with others, can help teens understand that actions have consequences. There is no reason for this 18 year old to have access to a machete. There is even less reason for him to think it is okay to wave it in public. It’s easy for teens to get swept up in strong feelings or the influence of peers, but they must learn the boundaries of lawful, respectful behavior—especially when it involves the democratic process. While he was 18 years old at the time of the arrest, the previous 18 years of parental supervision should have taught him that this is wrong. If your teen is hanging out with the wrong crowd, it is your job as a parent to steer them in the right direction.
Legal Consequences for the Teen
The teen’s actions went past typical teenage misbehavior and turned into serious criminal behavior, which led to tough consequences. After he was first arrested, he was given a $55,000 bail and, if released, he must wear an ankle monitor and stay 1,000 feet away from polling locations. This court order is a strong reminder for teens—and their parents—about the serious consequences of actions that break the law.
The Neptune Beach Police Chief highlighted that this case went beyond free speech into unlawful intimidation, a sentiment echoed by local officials and community members. The Democratic Chair in Duval County, Daniel Henry, described the incident as “a troubling act of intimidation,” underscoring that such actions have no place in a democratic society. This sentiment highlights the importance of respectful participation, a lesson that parents can reinforce at home.
Final Thoughts
In the end, this incident shows why it’s so important for parents to stay involved as their teens start entering the adult world. Parents must be actively involved in making sure their kids make good decisions throughout their teenage years and into adulthood. As the 2024 election season continues, it’s a good time to remind teens that their voices matter and that violence, intimidation, and general misconduct is not appropriate