Manatee County Enforces New Juvenile Curfew: A Bold Step for Community Safety

Share and Follow

In Manatee County, Florida, a new curfew affecting teenagers under the age of 16 has been officially approved by county commissioners, according to a report by WFLA.

The commissioners are implementing this curfew with the aim of reducing crime rates and ensuring the safety of young residents during late-night hours.

Commissioner Amanda Ballard expressed concern, stating, “There are many kids, unfortunately, who roam the streets without their parents’ knowledge, putting themselves in potentially dangerous situations.”

The curfew decision was passed with a 5-2 majority, with Commissioners Mike Rahn and George Kruse opposing the measure.

Kruse said he felt the ordinance was government overreach.

“I think this is a solution looking for a problem. I think we have amazing deputies and police officers out there that can handle the actual criminal elements. I fundamentally disagree with this, and I think we are going down a slippery slope that is going to have more unintended consequences than positive benefits in the long run,” Kruse said.

Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann said the school district asked for the ordinance. He said he believes the curfew will improve public safety.

“It has nothing to do with overriding parents. It actually gives the parents a stronger right to tell your kids you need to be home,” McCann said.

The curfew applies to anyone under 16 years old. It will run from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and between 12:01 a.m. and 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office will be tasked with enforcing the ordinance.

“Our primary goal is education,” said Sheriff Rick Wells. “We are just trying to get them home safely, that is it.”

It goes into effect immediately. The sheriff said he still needs to educate deputies on the ordinance, so it will take some time to officially begin enforcement

The penalty for a first-time violation is a written warning. After that, the teen will face a $50 fine for each violation.

Rules and exceptions to the curfew can be found on this page.