Published on
Cocoa Beach, FL – Two individuals, including a local elementary school principal, have been arrested following an underage drinking party involving more than 100 juveniles at a residence identified as the home of Elizabeth Hill-Brodigan, principal of Roosevelt Elementary School.
The incident occurred on January 19, 2025, when Cocoa Beach Police officers responded to reports of a house party with underage attendees. Upon arrival, officers discovered over 100 juveniles at the scene, many wearing matching t-shirts and consuming alcohol, which was allegedly made readily available in coolers throughout the property.
While police investigated the party, a juvenile was found on the front lawn suffering from an alcohol-related medical emergency. Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) was called to treat the individual, whose level of intoxication required significant intervention. Officers also observed Hill-Brodigan exiting her residence to turn off outdoor lights and re-entering her home while first responders were on-site, raising questions about her involvement.
During the response, a nearby traffic stop related to the event resulted in the arrest of a juvenile for driving under the influence (DUI).
Additionally, an intoxicated adult female, later identified as Karly Anderson, approached officers and claimed she was a teacher who had been at the party. It was later confirmed that Anderson also works at Roosevelt Elementary School, alongside Hill-Brodigan.
Following an investigation that involved interviewing juveniles and parents, police obtained arrest warrants for Hill-Brodigan and Anderson. Hill-Brodigan was charged with child neglect, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and holding an open house party, while Anderson faces charges of child neglect and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
According to multiple sources, Superintendent Mark Rendell was allegedly interfering with the investigation and was threatened with possible arrest himself.
Community members have expressed outrage and concern over the involvement of two educators in the incident. Many parents are questioning how individuals tasked with ensuring the safety and well-being of children could engage in such behavior.
The Brevard County School District has yet to issue a statement regarding the arrests or the employment status of Hill-Brodigan and Anderson.
Authorities have urged anyone with additional information about the case to contact Detective Rosa of the Cocoa Beach Police Department at (321) 868-3248.
