A major Southern California shopping center that was rocked by two youth fights last year announced a new policy requiring adult supervision for minors on Fridays and Saturdays.
After 3 p.m. on those days, minors will not be allowed to enter the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance and anyone on the premises will be asked to leave if not accompanied by a parent or adult over 21 years of age, according to a statement from Simon Property Group. The policy, which was first reported by other media outlets, goes into effect on Friday.
“We are committed to providing a friendly and family-friendly shopping environment for all of our guests,” Simon said in his statement. “The program is a response to feedback from the community and community leaders as the center reinforces its commitment to the community to provide a friendly, family-friendly shopping environment.”
The change comes about two months after a fight escalated into “escalating disruptive behavior” throughout the mall that led to its temporary closure and the arrest of five youths.
To quell the disturbance, Torrance police asked nearly a dozen other police agencies for help. Officers formed a skirmish line, issued a dispersal order and escorted the youths out of the mall and surrounding businesses, according to a Press release from the Department.
Several law enforcement agencies also responded last summer when a fight between youths attracted a massive crowd of underage onlookers.
In that incident, a witness reported that at least one shot was fired, but there were no reports of serious injuries or arrests. Authorities worked to clear observers of the fight from the area, but there was no general evacuation of the mall, police said.
Fox11 reported Friday that signs detailing the policy were posted at the mall’s entrance.
In its policy, Simon said youth and their adult companions may be asked to show driver’s licenses or other proof of age, and those without identification will be denied entry or asked to leave.
According to the policy, one adult can accompany up to four youth, but must remain with them at all times and is responsible for their actions.
Minor store employees may remain during their shifts, but must comply with the youth policy when not at work.