Mall at Greece Ridge confident in security measures after Tuesday night disturbances
GREECE, N.Y. – Law enforcement officials are standing behind the security framework in place at the Mall at Greece Ridge after fights forced the mall to close on Tuesday night.
The security monitoring system at the Mall at Greece Ridge is a product of continuous coordination between local police and mall security, according to Greece Police Chief Michael Wood.
“We didn’t just create this in two days. This has been in place for some time. We have had an active and very good partnership with the mall and it’s management for some time now,” Wood said.
The police substation in the mall has proved to be an invaluable asset, with cameras monitoring every building and facial recognition technology in place.
On Tuesday night, between 150 and 200 teenagers at the Mall at Greece Ridge caused a disruption. Wilmorite Property security staff alerted at least five law enforcement agencies when the teenagers refused to leave.
Greece Police Officer Katelyn Brado emphasized that the quick response wouldn’t have been possible without the daily coordination with mall security.
“This allows us to conduct our police here at the Greece Ridge Mall instead of having to go to our headquarters and precinct too. We are able to handle things right in the moment,” said Brado.
In response to the disturbances, the mall has imposed a curfew through New Year’s Day, requiring anyone age 19 or under to be accompanied by an adult when entering the mall after 4 p.m. Brado stated that law enforcement supports the mall’s decision and is prepared to assist with any initiatives the mall chooses to take.
Despite the disturbances on Tuesday, law enforcement officials and mall management are confident in the security measures in place to keep shoppers safe.