WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — A new chaperone policy at Busch Gardens Williamsburg goes into effect today at 4 p.m., hours before James City County Police say they will begin enforcing the county's midnight curfew for minors in and around the amusement park.
Police say safety is a top concern after a stabbing and a large fight took place during the park's first few weekends of Howl-O-Scream. Police call data also show reports of five assaults and five fights at Busch Gardens so far this year.
Police believe the new measures will ease some minds. Area parents say they're happy to see the amusement park and James City County Police addressing safety concerns.
"So, I do think something needs to be in place because of stuff like that," said Niyala Steele, a Williamsburg-area mother and park visitor. "We can't be losing our babies over senseless acts."
Now, anyone younger than age 16 won't be allowed into the park without a chaperone who is at least 21-years-old. And after midnight, anyone younger than age 18 must be with a parent or guardian.
Police say that anyone who violates the guidelines may face misdemeanor charges.
Some parents in Williamsburg who spoke to 13News Now question how law enforcement will successfully enforce park rules.
"What are they going to do if the kid gets there at noon? I don't know how they're going to enforce it, and if they see a kid walking around by themselves, are they going to ask for a chaperone?” said Nik Tsitsidopoules. “I don't know. They haven't really been too clear about that."
However, one mother doesn’t believe the new rules are strong enough.
"It's just kind of like a wild card. They just wanna set the age limit at 18, but there are also other individuals that are 19, 20, 21," said Andrea Estep. “With that information, it really doesn’t make me feel content.”
The new safety measures will continue through November 3 and apply to every ticket holder and park member.