Crime & Safety
Farmington, West Hartford PDs Prep For Planned Teen Takeover Of Mall: Police
Police said Thursday they plan increased patrols at the mall after social media posts promoted a gathering this weekend.
FARMINGTON/WEST HARTFORD, CT — Farmington police said they will increase patrols at the Westfarms Mall on Saturday following social media posts promoting a possible “teen takeover” gathering at the shopping center.
The Farmington Police Department said it is coordinating with West Hartford police, regional law enforcement agencies and Westfarms management in response to online posts circulating about a potential juvenile gathering planned for Saturday, May 16.
The mall is located in both Farmington and West Hartford.
Find out what's happening in Farmingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Police said similar social media-driven events have occurred both locally and nationally and can quickly grow in size with little warning.
“These events are not organized, not supervised, and can quickly become unsafe,” the department said in a public advisory issued Thursday.
Find out what's happening in Farmingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Officials said concerns include the possibility of large, unstructured crowds and disruptive or unlawful behavior.
In response, Farmington police said officers will maintain a heightened presence throughout the mall property and nearby areas on Saturday.
Officers will be deployed to deter disorderly conduct and respond quickly to incidents, according to the department.
Police said a “strict zero-tolerance enforcement policy” will be in effect and warned that unlawful or dangerous behavior could result in arrests or other enforcement action.
Authorities are also urging parents and guardians to speak with teenagers about the risks and consequences associated with unsanctioned gatherings promoted online.
Mall visitors should expect increased police activity throughout the property, police said, and are encouraged to report suspicious or disruptive behavior immediately.
Farmington police said they will continue monitoring the situation and may adjust staffing levels in coordination with partner agencies and mall security personnel.
Anyone with information about potential disruptive activity is asked to contact the Farmington Police Department at 860-675-2400.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
