MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — Eight minors have fled a Florida mental health clinic after unrest broke out among residents.
NBC affiliate WPTV reported that 50 of Sandy Pines’ 130 residents rioted after fights broke out.
Sandy Pines describes itself as a behavioral health treatment center for children and adolescents.
Three people, including a staff member, were injured in the unrest, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office said.
“Those involved in the incident broke windows, destroyed furniture and engaged in a major fight before a group of minors stormed out of the facility,” the sheriff’s office said.
Eight minors escaped during the rioting but were later arrested and taken to a juvenile detention center in Fort Pierce on various charges, according to deputies. Including fugitives, a total of 12 minors were arrested in the riots.
