Dothan Police Department to Increase Enforcement of Existing Juvenile Curfew Ordinance
The Dothan Police Department will be increasing enforcement of the City of Dothan’s existing Juvenile Curfew Ordinance as part of our ongoing efforts to reduce juvenile crime, protect young people from becoming victims of crime, and improve public safety throughout our community.
The juvenile curfew ordinance has been in effect for many years. This initiative reflects an increased emphasis on enforcing an existing city ordinance as part of the department’s overall crime reduction strategy.
Unless one of the exceptions provided in the ordinance applies, juveniles 17 years of age and younger may not be in public places during the following hours:
Sunday through Thursday: 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Friday and Saturday: Midnight to 6:00 a.m.
The ordinance contains several exceptions, including juveniles who are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, traveling to or from employment, school, religious, or other authorized activities, or otherwise engaged in conduct specifically permitted by the ordinance.
When officers encounter a juvenile during curfew hours, they will investigate to determine whether an exception applies. If no lawful exception exists, officers will take the action authorized by the ordinance, including taking the juvenile into protective custody when appropriate, while contacting the juvenile’s parent or legal guardian.
As required by the ordinance, a first violation will result in a warning being issued to the parent or legal guardian.
This warning serves as formal notice that any subsequent curfew violation may result in the parent or legal guardian being summoned to Dothan Municipal Court. Upon conviction, penalties may include a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for up to six months, or both, as authorized by law. In addition, repeat violations may result in the juvenile being referred to the appropriate juvenile authorities for further action.
Parents and legal guardians play an important role in ensuring juveniles comply with the City’s curfew ordinance. We encourage families to discuss the curfew with their children, know where they are during late night hours, and help them make safe, responsible decisions.
The purpose of this enforcement initiative is prevention, not punishment. By reducing late night juvenile activity, the department hopes to decrease opportunities for crime, improve public safety, and help keep young people from becoming victims or offenders. The Dothan Police Department will continue to work with parents, schools, and community partners to build a safer community for everyone.
For additional information regarding the City of Dothan Juvenile Curfew Ordinance, please contact the Dothan Police Department Special Investigation Unit at (334) 615-3632.
“Our goal is not to punish young people or parents. Our goal is to keep juveniles safe, reduce opportunities for crime, and ensure our officers can intervene before someone becomes a victim or makes a life changing decision. This ordinance is one more tool that helps us accomplish that mission.” — Chief Will Benny