Several business owners also called Amherst police and officers agreed to step up patrols and do walkthroughs.
“The signs seem to be keeping them away but there have been instances where the police have had to be involved. They just don’t listen when you tell them they can’t stay and it’s not great for business when the police have to escort them away,” said Wallace. Many businesses in Amherst have restrictions: no more than 2 individuals under the age of 18 are allowed inside without adult supervision.“Kids are very bad, they steal from Sugar Buzz, I see why they have all the signs up and everything,” she said.She’s witnessed too many leaving their kids unsupervised and feels like some parents feel businesses are daycares.
“They drop them off and they’re just sitting here,” said Bernadette Hairned. “I really feel strongly that that’s what has to change.” Amherst police said these extra patrols are just one way to ensure there won’t be any problems entering the summer months, when many students are out of school.