Mayor Rahm Emanuel Applauds Passage Of Enhanced Curfew Ordinance

Commends Alderman for passing ordinance to protect Chicago’s children

Mayor's Press Office    312.744.3334

Mayor Rahm Emanuel applauded Aldermen Toni L. Foulkes, 15th Ward; Michelle Harris, 8th Ward; and Lona Lane, 18th Ward today for working to provide an enhanced curfew ordinance that will help better protect the children of Chicago.
“I advocated for curfew laws while serving President Clinton because I believe the safest place for a child is at home,” said Mayor Emanuel. “I commend the aldermen for getting this ordinance passed. This is another tool that will help fight crime and help children from becoming victims of crime.”
 “While the government can do its part, we need parents to do theirs. We need parents to help make sure their children are home safe where they belong,” added the Mayor.
“Earlier curfew for younger kids can only help protect them. Anything we can do to get kids off the street can assist us in reducing violence,” said Alderman Foulkes.
Studies have shown that curfews are an effective way to reduce violence and decrease arrests among youth. Three years after San Antonio, Texas enacted a curfew, the victimization of youth dropped 84 per cent.  Detroit, Cincinnati, New Orleans, and other cities report similar results. Aggregate data from across the country also supports the efficacy of curfews: in the five years following enactment, youth arrests drop by an average of 10%.
Ronald Holt, director of the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) program and a veteran of the Chicago Police Department, applauded the passage of the ordinance. “This ordinance will help keep our children safe and make clear the importance of consistent, attentive parental control and responsibility,” said Holt.
The City of Chicago curfew ordinance applies to children ages 16 years and younger.

• Weekday curfew for minors 12 through 16 years of age  is 10:00 p.m.;
• Weekday curfew for minors 12 and younger is  8:30 p.m.;
• Weekend curfew for minors 12 through 16 years of age is 11:00 p.m.;
• Weekend curfew for minors 12 years and younger is 9:00 p.m.

Curfew violators are subject to a fine of up to $500 or community service. Three offenses in a twelve-month period shall be subject to up to $1,500 in addition to community service.