Philly Cracks Down on Teen Flash Mobs

Philadelphia's top cop has warned teenagers that they can go to jail for joining texted "flash mobs" in which groups of rampaging teens attack property and passers-by. Hundreds of rowdy teenagers, organized by email or text message, have gathered in downtown Philly on recent weekends and the police plan to increase manpower and tighten curfews in response, the New York Times reports.

Police have warned parents they can be held responsible for their children's behavior. The city's major rejects suggestions that cuts in city youth services are to blame for the mobs. "I don’t think people should be finding excuses for inappropriate behavior,” said Mayor Nutter. “There is no racial component to stupid behavior, and parents should not be looking to the government to provide entertainment for their children.” (More flash mob stories.)