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Monroeville Mall implementing ‘Youth Escort Policy' in light of recent violence

MONROEVILLE, Pa. — The Monroeville Mall announced Sunday plans to implement a Youth Escort Policy, one day after a teenager shot three people inside the Macy’s department store.

A statement from the mall stated that the YEP is intended to "provide shoppers and retailers with a family-friendly, convenient and enjoyable shopping experience."

The policy will go into effect by the end of February, requiring all mall visitors under the age of 18 to be accompanied at all times on Friday and Saturday nights after 6 p.m. by a parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old.

"Monroeville Mall strives to remain a center of commerce in the community that brings quality stores and shoppers together," said Monroeville Mall General Manager Tom Gerber. "Unfortunately, a growing number of unsupervised youth are attempting to use the mall in a manner that is inconsistent with this purpose."   

Officials hope the YEP will curtail the rising number of unsupervised youth hanging out at the mall, and related disturbances occurring there Friday and Saturday nights.

Last December, a massive brawl broke out inside the mall. Police said about 1,000 children and teens were inside at the time.

"Through feedback from many community leaders and groups -- and shoppers and retailers that have voiced concern about unlawful behavior on weekend nights -- we have designed a policy that will allow Monroeville Mall to address unsupervised youth issues and provide all of our shoppers with a pleasant shopping experience," said Gerber.

Teenagers under the age of 18 who are employed at the mall will be allowed to work after 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. They will be issued identification by the mall that will provide ease of access to work.

Additional information about the new policy will be available on the Monroeville Mall website once a launch date has been finalized.

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