DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Wiregrass Commons Mall has expanded its Youth Escort Policy (YEP), requiring anyone under the age of 18 to be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 5 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
The policy was previously posted as applying after 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with management reserving the right to implement it at other times when deemed necessary. A newly posted notice now extends the requirement to every evening beginning at 5 p.m.
The change comes after several recent violent incidents at the mall, including shootings and other disturbances that have raised concerns among shoppers, city leaders and business owners.
According to the mall’s posted notice, “After 5PM Monday through Sunday, Wiregrass Commons Mall visitors under 18 years old are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian 21 years or older.”
Under the Youth Escort Policy, mall security will monitor visitors entering after 5 p.m. Unescorted minors will be asked to leave unless they are accompanied by a qualifying adult.
The policy also includes several additional rules:
One parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old may accompany all of their children and up to three youths, provided at least one of the youths is their child.
Proof of age may be requested if the age of a youth or accompanying adult cannot be readily determined.
Youths under 18 who work at the mall are exempt while traveling directly to and from their place of employment but may be required to provide proof of employment.
Parents and guardians are responsible for the actions of the youths they escort.
Anyone who refuses to comply with the policy or other posted mall rules may be asked to leave and could face trespassing charges if they refuse.
The mall’s original policy also states that the Youth Escort Policy may be implemented at management’s discretion whenever it is deemed necessary for safety and security.
The updated notice is now posted at mall entrances, and security personnel are enforcing the policy during evening hours.
