The new initiative follows a rise in disturbances at fast-food locations, highlighting a national trend of increased crime involving young people.
Brooklyn McDonald’s Enforces Age Restrictions to Combat Youth Crime
Brooklyn McDonald’s Enforces Age Restrictions to Combat Youth Crime
A Brooklyn McDonald’s has implemented a strict ID policy for patrons under 20 to address safety concerns stemming from youth-related violence.
In response to a significant rise in violence and disorderly conduct, a McDonald’s in Brooklyn has stepped up with a stringent policy that prohibits patrons under the age of 20 from entering unless they are accompanied by an adult and can provide identification. This move comes after numerous incidents, including a recent episode where a security guard was attacked by masked teenagers and a glass door was damaged. The decision underscores escalating worries over safety in fast-food restaurants, where violence linked to youth has become prevalent.
Manager Amber Bussain, 19, states that her location, situated near Nostrand and Flatbush Avenues, has faced frequent disruptions from groups of teenagers for an extended period. She recounts the chaos: “They come in just to cause trouble,” noting how they throw ice at customers, steal food, and even smoke marijuana on the premises. This restaurant alone called the police 29 times in 2025, with over 100 calls made each year for the past three years, illustrating the ongoing challenges in maintaining a secure environment for both staff and customers.
The introduction of this policy has prompted mixed reactions within the community. While some support the additional measures for the sake of safety, others criticize the decision, claiming it unfairly targets all young individuals due to the actions of a few. Other McDonald’s locations across the country are witnessing comparable issues, leading some franchises to engage private security or establish curfews to combat late-night disturbances.
As this troubling trend of violence at fast-food restaurants continues, the effectiveness of such restrictive policies remains to be seen. Will this approach mitigate safety concerns, or simply redirect young offenders to other venues?
Manager Amber Bussain, 19, states that her location, situated near Nostrand and Flatbush Avenues, has faced frequent disruptions from groups of teenagers for an extended period. She recounts the chaos: “They come in just to cause trouble,” noting how they throw ice at customers, steal food, and even smoke marijuana on the premises. This restaurant alone called the police 29 times in 2025, with over 100 calls made each year for the past three years, illustrating the ongoing challenges in maintaining a secure environment for both staff and customers.
The introduction of this policy has prompted mixed reactions within the community. While some support the additional measures for the sake of safety, others criticize the decision, claiming it unfairly targets all young individuals due to the actions of a few. Other McDonald’s locations across the country are witnessing comparable issues, leading some franchises to engage private security or establish curfews to combat late-night disturbances.
As this troubling trend of violence at fast-food restaurants continues, the effectiveness of such restrictive policies remains to be seen. Will this approach mitigate safety concerns, or simply redirect young offenders to other venues?
