Arundel Mills Starting Youth Supervision Policy After MD Mall Violence

HANOVER, MD — Hanover's Arundel Mills mall is starting a youth supervision policy next month.

Beginning Sept. 6, mallgoers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or an adult over 21 on Fridays and Saturdays after 3 p.m. One adult can accompany up to four minors.

"We are committed to providing a pleasant and family friendly shopping environment for all of our guests," Arundel Mills said on its policy website. "Individuals who lack acceptable identification, or do not abide by the shopping center's Youth Supervision Policy will be asked to leave the property."

Mall employees under 18 can work during the supervision hours, but they must leave the mall after their shift if they don't have an adult escort.

"All accompanied youth must remain with the adult at all times," the Arundel Mills website said. "Adults are responsible for the actions of all of the youth they accompany."

The news follows youth mall violence across Maryland.

Three minors were arrested this April after fights at the Towson Town Center.

An armed 17-year-old was fatally shot at The Mall in Columbia last month. Police think the suspect, believed to be in his teens or 20s, specifically targeted the victim.

Other shopping centers, like The Avenue at White Marsh, have also started youth supervision policies in recent months.

More details on the new Arundel Mills rules are posted here.