Winston-Salem Considers Curfew for Minors to Curb Late-Night Disturbances
In response to a rise in late-night incidents involving minors, Winston-Salem officials are deliberating the implementation of a city-wide curfew. The proposal comes after a series of disturbances downtown, prompting local authorities to seek solutions.
Police Chief William Penn addressed the city council, highlighting a troubling trend where teenagers across the nation use social media platforms to coordinate large, often unruly gatherings. “Nationwide, we’ve had dozens of what’s deemed ‘teen takeovers’, with numerous arrests, lots of property damage,” Penn explained. “Winston-Salem hasn’t been immune from that. We’ve had our own teen takeovers.”
Last week, an event led to police citing 11 juveniles, primarily for underage drinking, with several young adults also facing charges related to drug possession and disorderly conduct. Additionally, one individual was apprehended for carrying a concealed weapon.
In light of these events, Chief Penn is advocating for a curfew that would limit minors’ activities between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Similar measures have shown promising results elsewhere; a curfew in Charlotte has reportedly reduced juvenile crime by 33% this year, as per a presentation by the Winston-Salem Police Department.
City Manager Pat Pate supports the idea, suggesting that a curfew could enhance the efficiency of resource deployment and bolster preventive efforts by the police.
The city council is set to vote on the proposed curfew in their upcoming meeting on Monday.
