RAPID CITY, S.D. – Blaming a rise in thefts and fights breaking out, Uptown Rapid Mall has enacted a new policy banning individuals under the age of 18 from the property if they are not accompanied by an adult.
The policy says that proof of age may be required if the age of the youth or guardian is difficult to determine and that a valid photo identification with a date of birth may be required. The posting listed driver’s licenses, state or military IDs, passports and visas as valid forms IDs.
Under the new policy, one adult over the age of 18 may accompany up to three youths provided that they are the parent or guardian of at least one of the children. Additionally, one parent or guardian over the age of 21 may accompany all of their children.
Individuals under the age of 18 who work at the mall may gain access to the property without a parent or guardian. However, they may be asked for proof of employment and must go directly to their working area and leave directly after their shift has concluded.
Uptown Rapid is owned by RockStep Capital and the new policy is being implemented across all properties they own.
Uptown Rapid commented on the new policy. “A Youth Escort Policy is a policy our corporation has implemented for their malls across the US, along with several other mall owners in our nation. With theft on the rise, and fights continually breaking out, we too have implemented this policy. A majority of the thefts and fights are among the age group of 18 years and younger. We want a safe environment for our shoppers and business owners.”
