Visitors to Lynnhaven Mall in Virginia Beach will soon be met with a new chaperone rule. Starting January 1, the Parental Guidance Required (PGR) initiative will go into effect, requiring anyone at the mall under that age of 18 to be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult of at least 21 years of age. The rule will only be in place on Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 4 p.m.
The new rule comes after an incident on Saturday (December 26) where a group of juveniles allegedly kept getting into fights at the mall, which eventually was forced to close early. No one was injured during the incident.
"In an effort to eliminate disruptive behavior by unsupervised youth, we made the decision to implement a curfew program at Lynnhaven Mall," said Michael Harris, general manager of the mall. "Providing an environment where everyone feels comfortable is paramount, and the PGR program is an added safety measure to help achieve this. We want to be clear that all are welcome at Lynnhaven Mall at any time. We simply require that during certain times, families shop together."
Mall officials said trained public safety officers will be stationed at mall entrances where they will check IDs for those visiting the mall. One adult can accompany up to four juveniles.
"As a member of our City Council, I fully support our valued community partner, Lynnhaven Mall, as the take an extra step in their security measures," said Michael Berlucchi, Rose Hall District council member. "This PGR at Lynnhaven Mall will help ensure a pleasant and safe environment that will benefit every member of our community."
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