Monroeville Mall's New Youth Escort Policy Takes Effect
MONROEVILLE (KDKA) -- Friday evening was the first night for Monroeville Mall's new security policy instituted after a shooting earlier this month.
On Friday and Saturday evenings starting at 6 p.m., anyone under 18 has to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Mall security stopped anyone who didn't look old enough and asked to see identification. They passed out fliers explaining the youth escort policy, and the mall even played announcements over the loud speaker.
Some teens without a parent were told they had to leave.
Julia Cephas, of Penn Hills, is 18-years-old, but had the unusual experience of being carded at the mall. She didn't seem to mind.
"If they had metal detectors that would be worse, so carding is like real simple," said Cephas.
The policy comes after three people were wounded in the Macy's, allegedly by a 17-year-old with a gun.
Monroeville Mall spokesperson Stacey Keating says young people without a parent will be given a chance to contact one.
"They'll be escorted to an area that we've designated where they can contact a family member, be reunited with them and continue shopping or find a ride off the property," said Keating.
However, she says someone totally uncooperative could be charged with trespassing by police.
Chris Poe, of Plum, was at the mall with her 13-year-old son and both think the escort policy is the right way to go.
"They have to do something," said Poe. "Hopefully, it'll deter."
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