FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (WJLA/WKRC) – A McDonald’s in Virginia has imposed new restrictions following a series of alleged altercations involving students. An Alexandria location in Fairfax County now only allows customers over the age of 21 to dine inside, according to a sign posted outside the restaurant.
The sign states, “Due to repeated incidents of student violence, this McDonald’s location is temporarily closed for dine-in service to anyone under 21 years of age. This decision was made to protect our staff, our guests, and our community.”
It’s a great thing,” said Tim Perkins, who works nearby. “This is probably the first time in five years that I’ve sat down for 15 minutes in this McDonald’s and enjoyed a hamburger.”
To enter, customers must ring a doorbell to be allowed entry by an employee. A spokesperson for the franchise said student violence and disrespectful behavior occur at least once a week, causing frustration among staff and customers.
“The fighting is a problem and they’re pretty brazen. The management tries to step in and these kids are pretty violent,” said longtime customer Robert Hancasky, who said he has frequented this McDonald’s for nearly 50 years. “They’re just trying to stop the violence because it’s not fair to any other customer who comes in for the sandwich, a hard-working person, they got to put up with a bunch of idiots.”
Despite the restrictions, customers under 21 can still use the drive-thru, order via a mobile app for curbside pickup, and dine inside if accompanied by a chaperone. Up to four minors are allowed entry with an adult.
“We love being part of the Edison community and we value each and every customer,” said a McDonald’s in a statement. “We’ve enhanced our Franconia Road McDonald’s security measures in an effort to promote a safe environment for our staff and customers. This policy was developed in partnership with local school officials with oversight from local law enforcement.”
Edison High School, located nearby, has communicated the new policy to its community. “Edison High School’s attendance policy makes it clear that students who leave campus during the school day without a parent check-out will receive an unexcused absence,” said a statement from Fairfax County Public Schools. “FCPS encourages families to talk to their students about appropriate conduct, including in the community.”
