Security bolstered at Del Amo Fashion Center, South Bay Pavilion for "planned takeovers" over weekend
Authorities in Torrance and Carson have announced plans to bolster security at popular shopping centers in their communities after learning of a "planned takeovers."
Both the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance and the South Bay Pavilion in Carson will have increased law enforcement presence over the weekend because of the planned social media events by youth in each community.
"I wanted to make our community aware of information we received about a planned 'takeover' by 'youth from around the county,'" said Torrance Police Chief Jay Hart in a statement on Friday. "We have seen this type of activity play out in community after community. Most recently, the 'takeover' at the Pike (in Long Beach) led to outbreaks of violence and a shooting nearby."
Hart is referring to a planned fight between a woman and a juvenile girl last weekend at The Pike Outlets in Long Beach, which drew a massive gathering of youths after the event was posted about on social media.
Related: Police disperse mass group of teenagers from Del Amo Fashion Center property, closing the mall early
After police broke up the fight and the crowd scattered, they received reports of a shooting. They rushed to the scene and found a 16-year-old boy suffering a gunshot wound to the leg. No arrests have yet been made but the teen is said to be recovering.
A statement from Carson Sheriff Station of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department echoed Hart's sentiment, saying that security teams are prepared and steps have been taken to "provide all a safe environment and experience."
The Del Amo Fashion Center has a "Youth Supervision Policy," which requires all visitors under the age of 18 to be accompanied by a parents or adult 21 over over after 3 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
"It is time for us to all come together to offer these children an alternative to violence and disorder. We need our partners in the schools, in our places of worship, in community based organizations, and at home to come alongside these kids and guide them to the path of being a good citizen and a good neighbor," Hart said. "investment in our youth is an investment in making our communities thrive. This is our job together!"
With the increase police presence on Saturday, it appeared that all was normal at each shopping center.
Anyone who may know more about the planned events is asked to contact TPD at (310) 328-3456 or LASD at (310) 830-1123.