‘Trash the mask’ event scheduled at Concord Mills loses momentum

CONCORD, N.C. — An event Friday evening at Concord Mills intended to protest North Carolina’s COVID-19 restrictions never happened, according to the Statesville Record & Landmark.

However, authorities in Concord said earlier in the day they were aware and ready to respond.

The group, which started as a Facebook event, said they will have a “mask-free dinner” in the Concord Mills Food Court followed by group shopping.

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The group planned to meet in the food court around 6:30 p.m. Friday before shopping at 7:15 p.m.

“Invite as many of your friends as you can, even if they don’t need to do Christmas shopping,” the group said.

City officials and Concord police said the group is not affiliated with the mall, but they are continuing to work with Simon Properties to respond to any incident on the mall’s property.

New- Just got this from Concord. City is aware of the “trash the mask” event. Mall officials will offer masks to people without them. Those who deny one can be asked to leave. If things escalate, trespassing charges can be issued if they refuse to leave @wsoctv pic.twitter.com/j9EnZyf8n7
— Joe Bruno (@JoeBrunoWSOC9) December 11, 2020

Simon Properties said they will continue to address and educate those who come into the mall without a mask. If someone is seen not wearing a mask on mall property while not eating food or drinking, they will be offered a free mask.

If that person continues to not wear a mask, mall personnel will ask them to leave the property.

Once an individual is asked to leave and does not comply, Simon Properties can contact Concord police. Police said they will then have the authority to escort individuals off the property and issue trespassing charges.