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Theaters take steps to keep movie-goers safe

By Alexa Ashwell
By Alexa Ashwell

GASTONIA, N.C. — There's a set of new signs posted outside Regal Cinemas in Gastonia, and it's not advertising the latest must-see movies. 
 
The signs serve as a warning that employees may search movie-goers' bags prior to entering the theatre. That is a policy that's not new but one that's being practiced more after recent shootings in movie theatres across the country.
 
"It's a good idea," Janie Rogers said, as she was walking in to the theater.  
 
Movie-goers at this location also welcomed the added protection some off-duty Gaston police officers provide as security guards.
 
"It just steps us up a little bit more as far as looking for suspicious things," said Officer J.C May, with the Gaston County Police Department. "The level of alertness has really stepped up after recent shootings."
 
Regular patrols are also providing an extra layer of protection at other theatres across the greater Charlotte area.
 
Channel 9 saw patrols outside AM Star 14 in Mooresville Friday.
 
"We may stop in front of the theatre even while working on paperwork in our cruisers just to be an extra presence," said Maj. Ron Chilton, with the Mooresville Police Department.
 
Parents Channel 9 spoke with outside AM Star 14 said they were also doing their part to ensure the safety of themselves and their children.
 
"We walked into the theatre first and looked around before we took the kids in," said Cynthia Valles of Mooresville. "We feel pretty safe."
 
Movie-goers said they wouldn't mind seeing even more security measures, such as metal detectors in area movie theatres.
 
"They do it in airports," said Sony Valles, of Mooresville. "You just never know."

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