Burlington Police Chief Doug Beaird says the City’s curfew has worked.
But some members of the City Council evidently feel that an earlier curfew would work even better. Currently, those 17-and-younger must be in by 11 pm if there’s school the next day, 12:30 am if it’s not a school night.
Under Councilwoman Becky Shockley’s recommendation, 14-year-olds and younger would have to be home by 9 pm on school nights and 10 on non-school nights, while those 15-17 could stay out to 11 pm every night. Beaird would also like to see parents facing penalties sooner, if their kids break curfew. Right now, they’re not taken-to-task unless there are 3 violations in the same night.
In a related matter, the Chief seized the opportunity to talk about the recent crime spree and his department’s need for more staff. Beaird also told the Council he’s pleased that the overtime he’s paid to better patrol the Maple Street area has worked well…and the City’s animal control officer is due back on the job soon; he’s been on medical leave.
