“Meth Island” Discovered in Florida

Authorities in Florida have initiated the dismantling of makeshift structures on an island notorious for drug use and overtaken by squatters. Known as “Meth Island” on social media, the island, located near the Dunlawton Bridge in Port Orange, has become a haven for squatters who built various wooden structures, including an elaborate four-story treehouse, huts made from old lumber and tree branches, and even a trampoline.

The presence of these structures raised significant safety concerns for both the occupants and local residents, particularly during hurricane season. “There was a huge safety concern for us about whoever would be on that island with those types of structures out there,” stated Port Orange Police Detective Mike Wallace. Moreover, the squatters had also set up booby traps on nearby islands to deter visitors, which authorities intend to address in the future.

Law enforcement officials, including the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Port Orange Police Department, South Daytona Police Department, and Florida Fish and Wildlife, collaborated to post no trespassing signs at the squatter camp last week. The objective was to safeguard individuals and prevent potential property damage resulting from debris scattered during storms. The makeshift buildings, believed to be constructed using stolen or scavenged wood, posed a threat to the island’s mangrove population, crucial for its protection during storm surges.

The squatter activity on the island has also raised concerns about drug and alcohol consumption, with evidence of drug use and alcohol consumption found at the site. “All it does is (draw attention) for young kids to go over there. [They go] to these islands and start having fun, and then you start getting the alcohol in there, and they are jumping down on these trampolines – that’s when an accident is going to wind up happening,” warned Kevin Pedri, a South Daytona police lieutenant.

Efforts to address the situation are underway, with local public works departments already beginning the process of dismantling the structures to restore the island to its natural state. Various agencies are monitoring the islands, and authorities plan to revisit the site once weather conditions permit. The initiative aims to eliminate the hazards posed by the squatter camp, protect the surrounding environment, and ensure the safety of individuals involved.

As the dismantling process progresses and the island is restored, Florida officials hope to prevent further occupation and mitigate the associated risks. The coordination between law enforcement agencies and public works departments highlights the commitment to maintaining safety and preserving the natural integrity of the area.