Mixed reactions from mall shoppers as youth escort, curfew policy take effect

Chris Gothner by Chris Gothner

Shoppers had decidedly mixed reactions to new weekend restrictions for unsupervised teens implemented Friday at both the East and West Towne Malls in Madison.

The new Youth Escort Policy started at 4 p.m. Friday and requires all mall visitors under 18 years of age to be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is 21 years of age or older on Friday and Saturdays after 4 p.m. It applies to all parts of the mall, except department stores and stores with exterior entrances.

Teenagers working at the mall are also exempt, though they must show proof of employment if stopped by mall security.

Reaction varied from shoppers at West Towne Mall Friday.

For Michelle Camilleri, parent of a 15-year-old, the policy represents the loss of a teenage tradition.

“I would drive to the mall and hang out with my friends when I was 16 and you have kids that aren’t going to be able to do that,” Camilleri said. “I think that kind of ruins it a little bit.”

Camilleri said she felt the policy unfairly stereotypes teenagers.

“I understand there’s probably issues, which is why they put forth a curfew policy, but there are also very well-behaved people that are around that age,” she said. “I think they are probably stereotyping a group of kids.”

15-year-old Deonica Pauls disagreed, though.

“It’s a great idea,” Pauls said. “Since I’m 15, I would like a parent to be with me because I don’t know what goes on here.”

Dajahna Bowers, who works at the mall, had mixed feelings about the policy.

“I think it’s reasonable for like 14-year-olds (and) 15-year-olds,” Bowers said. “(For) 16, 17-year-olds, I mean, we’re pretty much adults, I don’t think we need a parent or guardian with us.”

Shopper Arie Pope said she thinks the policy will make Madison’s malls safer.

“Maybe shoplifting will go down if they have to be supervised,” Pope said. “Hopefully it helps cut down (on) the violence.”

In a news release, mall officials said the policy aims to “provide all shoppers and retailers with a family-friendly, convenient and enjoyable shopping experience.”

“The Youth Escort Policy is intended to curtail the rising number of unsupervised youth hanging out at East Towne and West Towne Mall and related disturbances,” officials said. “Mall management is implementing the policy based on months of internal discussions and collaboration with local officials, customers and retail partners.”

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