After years of speculation, Montgomery City Council members voted in favor of a curfew for those under 17 as a method for tightening the city’s ongoing violence
For years, Montgomery residents have appealed to city, county and state leadership to aid in addressing crime in the city, which, despite Mayor Steven Reed claiming a drop in violent crime, has seemingly increased.
The tactic of imposing a curfew on underage people has been brought up frequently, since violent crimes in Montgomery are primarily committed by those in their teens.
City leadership has consistently stated that they were interested in the idea but were unsure of its legality. At Tuesday’s meeting, however, the council approved the curfew.
The curfew is now in effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays. On Friday and Saturday nights, the curfew starts at 11 p.m. The new rule would only apply to Montgomery’s downtown entertainment district. The curfew would also apply to regular school hours.
Disobeying the rule would result in a $500 fine for the first two offenses. Any subsequent violations can result in up to six months in jail.
Montgomery City Councilwoman Marche Johnson sponsored the new rule, which she has been pushing for years.
“Frankly speaking, after nine o’clock, there’s nothing going on for anyone under 17 years old,” Johnson said. “We also have implemented the open carry with alcoholic beverages, so we don’t want instances where kids are getting passed over alcohol when they shouldn’t have it.”
The rule passed, with Councilmen Andrew Szymanski and Oronde Mitchell casting the only no votes.
“[Police] cannot just walk up to people and ask them for identification,” Szymanski said. “I am concerned about the overall appearance and brand of our downtown area. It is important for us as we try and support, whether it be through the Main Street program or other types of incentives and opportunities that we have in downtown, that we are talking about growth and positivity.”
The rule still needs Reed’s signature before going into effect. However, City leadership claimed the mayor was in support, which is likely unnecessary since the council’s “yes” votes are sufficient to override a veto.
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