‘Our children are watching us’: Police condemn unruly, disruptive behavior at Petersburg youth events
Oct 08, 2026
PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- Recent unruly behavior at youth events in Petersburg has police reminding citizens that they should be cheering for their kids instead of getting intoxicated or starting fights.
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, Chief Travis Christian with the Petersburg Bureau of Police took to Faceb
ook to condemn "recent incidents involving unruly, disruptive and disorderly behavior" at youth sporting and recreational events at Albert Jones Field.
While Christian did not specify the exact nature of this conduct or when it occurred, he did say that Petersburg's children "deserve better than fighting, arguments, intoxication, threats and unnecessary disruption."
"This behavior is concerning, unacceptable and will be addressed," he said. "Albert Jones Field should be a safe and positive place where our children can compete, have fun, build friendships and enjoy the support of their families and community. The actions of adults and spectators should never take away from that experience or compromise the safety of those in attendance."
According to Christian, the Petersburg Bureau of Police will not tolerate illegal actions like fighting, threats, disorderly conduct, weapons violations and the illegal possession or use of drugs or alcohol. He said anyone who does behave this way will be held accountable.
However, Christian said Wednesday's post was about more than just enforcement.
"Our children are watching us," he said. "They see how we speak to officials, coaches, players and one another. We cannot demand respect, discipline and good sportsmanship from our young people while failing to demonstrate those same qualities ourselves."
Christian emphasized that these events are meant for Petersburg's children, "not the adults in the stands," and that those kids deserved to witness only support coming from spectators.
"I am asking for everyone attending events at Albert Jones Field to conduct themselves appropriately, respect one another and remember why we are there," he said. "Cheer for our children. Encourage them. Support them. Be the example they deserve."
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