FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The Fresno Police Department is reminding parents about the city’s new curfew ordinance as officers prepare for operations aimed at keeping minors safe during overnight hours.
Police recently shared information about the curfew on social media, warning both parents and children about the city’s rule for minors.
Under Fresno’s municipal code, anyone under the age of 18 is prohibited from loitering, wandering, playing or remaining in public places between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
“If we come across a juvenile that’s in violation of the ordinance we will be contacting their parent and they will be either returned to their parent and or returned home,” says Rob Beckwith, Deputy Chief with Fresno Police. “There can be consequences for the parent down the road. It’s a parental responsibility.”
The ordinance applies to public streets, parks, playgrounds, vacant lots and other unsupervised public areas.
There are execeptions to the curfew.
Minors are allowed to be out during curfew hours if they are accompanied by a parent, guardian or another adult responsible for their care.
The rule also does not apply to minors traveling directly home from a meeting, entertainment event, recreational activity or dance, or those running an emergency errand directed by a parent or guardian.
Police say the curfew is intended to promote public safety and help prevent young people from becoming victims of crime or engaging in illegal activity during late-night hours.
The department is encouraging parents to know where their children are and to discuss the curfew rules with them before the enforcement operation begins.
Fresno Police Deputy Chief Robert Beckwith said the operation will focus on education and enforcement of the city’s existing curfew ordinance.
Additional details about the operation are expected to be released by the department.