GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — As the weather gets warmer the Grand Rapids Police Department is reminding the community of the city's curfew for young people.
Children under 12 need to be in by 10 p.m., children under 15 need to be in by 11 p.m. and children under 17 need to be in by midnight.
The curfew ordinance does not apply when the children are with parents or guardians. Adults ages 21 and older who are designated by a parent or guardian may also be with the children.
“While there are penalties outlined in the ordinance for both children and parents/guardians, we prefer education and voluntary compliance over enforcement,” said Chief Eric Winstrom. “This ordinance is designed to keep kids safe. That’s our goal as a police department and we are asking parents and guardians to do the same.”
Larry Johnson, chief of staff and executive director of public safety for Grand Rapids Public Schools, said parents and caretakers need to stress the importance of the curfew to young people, as being out later can be dangerous for them.
"We encourage the cooperation of our parents to embrace curfew rules because we love our kids, care about them and desperately want to keep them safe,” said Johnson.
President and CEO of the Urban League of West Michigan Eric Brown said the curfews are critical for ensuring the safety of the children of Grand Rapids.
"These regulations are crucial for protecting our young people from the potential exposure to crime and other hazardous situations," Brown said. "Our primary mission is to foster a safe and nurturing environment where our youth can thrive and envision a promising future. The curfew laws are intended to safeguard them during vulnerable hours and provide parents and guardians with a framework to ensure their children’s safety.”
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