A controversial new curfew in Newark will start on Friday to keep kids off the streets overnight. Mayor Ras Baraka and Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé have announced the enforcement of the Juvenile Safety Initiative by the Newark Police.
What We Know:
- The curfew restricts children to be within 100 yards of their homes from 11 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.Initially, violators will receive a verbal warning and be escorted home.
- Repeat offenders may be taken to a youth crisis facility and released to a guardian.Parents could face reports to Children and Family Services for further violations.Studies suggest youth curfews have minimal impact on crime and harm prevention.
- Ameer Washington, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Newark, supports the curfew, citing historical effectiveness.The city aims for family support of the curfew, highlighting nighttime as dangerous for unsupervised children.
- Director Fragé emphasizes the curfew’s role in reducing crime involving children and requests parental compliance
The curfew is hoped to bolster community safety, with city officials urging compliance and reporting of any criminal activities to enhance protection for the youth.
