4 teens accused of climbing over fence to get into Kennywood
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Four teenagers are facing charges after allegedly climbing over a fence to enter Kennywood.
A spokesperson for the park said Saturday that three of the teens are facing multiple charges and a fourth teen will be charged with trespassing. They were caught on camera around 2 p.m. on Saturday trying to enter the park.
The spokesperson said the four teens will be banned from the park.
"The safety and security of our guests and team members is our top priority. We are pleased that our enhanced security procedures, including enhancements to our perimeter, new technology and increased police presence enabled us to immediately detect and apprehend those responsible," the spokesperson said.
Saturday was opening day at the park and the first chance to test its new security protocols. Kennywood has spent the last eight months upgrading its security after a shooting at the park and calls from politicians to secure the area. Police arrested a 15-year-old boy in connection with the shooting, but the charges were later dropped.
Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala also questioned the park's safety last month, saying he'd block opening day unless the park made the fixes his office suggested. KDKA-TV reached out to the district attorney's office Saturday for comment but did not hear back.
West Mifflin Mayor Chris Kelly said Saturday he's thankful the teens were caught and will be prosecuted. He added that he toured the park to see the new security measures and feels assured that visitors can safely enjoy their time this summer.
"Our police department has worked hand in hand with Kennywood Administration and specifically with their very capable protection service," Kelly said in a statement to KDKA-TV. "I have personally toured the facility to see first hand the technicality advanced detection capabilities. Chief McCullough had worked along side support agencies to assure that visitors to our community, specifically Kennywood return home after a fulfilling and enjoyable experience."