VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Following a string of incidents that happened on December 26, Lynnhaven Mall implements a new rule that requires mandatory adult supervision for guests under 18 on Fridays and Saturdays.
Lynnhaven Mall's Parental Guidance Required program will take effect Friday, January 1.
The PGR program will require that after 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays all guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult who is at least 21 years old.
The rule will be strictly enforced throughout the entire shopping center property, including the exterior entrances.
Michael Harris, Senior General Manager of Lynnhaven Mall, believes providing an environment where everyone feels comfortable is paramount.
"PGR program is an added safety measure to help achieve this. We want to be clear that all are welcome at Lynnhaven Mall and at any time. We simply require that during certain times, families shop together,” Harris said.
Michael Berlucchi, Council Member of Rose Hall District, said Lynnhaven Mall has been a vital part of our community for 40 years, a premier shopping center that serves residents and visitors to our great city.
"This PGR at Lynnhaven Mall will help ensure a pleasant and safe environment that will benefit every member of our community,"Berlucchi said.
During PGR hours, trained public safety officers will be stationed at all Lynnhaven Mall entrances to check IDs of visitors who appear to be younger than 18 years old. Those who cannot provide a valid photo ID showing they are at least 18 years old will need to be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult to stay at the shopping center. One adult may accompany up to four youths and must remain with them through the duration of the shopping experience.
Those who provide proper identification to indicate that they are at least 18 years old will be offered an optional wristband. Those who choose not to wear the wristband may be asked for ID again by safety officers inside the shopping center. Valid identification can be a state issued driver’s license or ID card, a military ID, a school ID card, or a passport. The identification must be tamper proof and include a photograph and date of birth.
Announcements will be made inside Lynnhaven Mall starting at 3 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, giving unsupervised youths ample time to complete their shopping or dining before PGR begins. After 4 p.m. public safety officers inside the shopping center will check IDs of individuals who appear to be underage and are not wearing wristbands.
