CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. — Chesterfield County police are increasing their presence at Chesterfield Town Center this weekend in response to a social media flyer advertising a parking lot takeover.
Chesterfield County Police Chief Col. Frank Carpenter said the department is collaborating with mall management to address the potential disruption.
"Myself as well as individuals from the mall management have agreed and are collaborating in our efforts to be able to address this issue," Carpenter said.
Carpenter warned that officers will address anyone who comes to the mall to break the law.
"If you have a desire to come to the Chesterfield Town Center and patronize business, we’ll be there to support you, but if you come with the desire to create disruption and break the law, we’ll be there to address those issues as well," Carpenter said.
Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards said his department is also closely monitoring social media for similar pop-up takeovers.
Carpenter asked parents to monitor what their children are planning to do this weekend.
"As you know these activities can sometimes these activities can be dangerous and we want to preserve human life. We will not tolerate any reckless behavior or dangerous activities I would ask that you be safe this weekend," Carpenter said.
Shopper Sean Inman said he typically enjoys the peaceful environment at the mall but worries the takeover will cause chaos.
"I am shopping. Shopping for a good friend of mine," Inman said. "I just want to able to enjoy the mall without the chaos. That’s my personal opinion. There are other things that you could use energy for than to make a nuisance of yourself at the mall."
Chesterfield police ask anyone who sees suspicious activity this weekend to call their non-emergency number at 804-748-1251.
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