Georgetown, DE – In response to a troubling increase in juvenile gun charges and recent shooting incidents, Georgetown Police Maj. Nelson Brown announced that the City of Georgetown has implemented a new curfew for minors as part of its Safe Streets Ordinance. Officials say the move is designed to curb violence, keep illegal weapons out of young people’s hands, and hold parents accountable for ensuring the safety of their children.
According to Maj. Nelson Brown, the curfew will be strictly enforced and applies to all juveniles under the age of 18:
- Sunday–Thursday: 10:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.
- Friday, Saturday, and holidays: Midnight – 6:00 a.m.
The only exceptions are for juveniles traveling to or from work or participating in an authorized activity.
Under the new rules, officers are authorized to:
- Stop and question juveniles found in public during curfew hours.
- Safely transport them home.
- Investigate possible neglect or parental involvement in delinquent acts.
Brown emphasized that the curfew comes alongside tougher enforcement of the city’s gun ordinances. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess a firearm, ammunition, or deadly weapon unless directly supervised by a parent or legal guardian. Restricted weapons include:
- Knives with blades longer than 2 inches.
- Brass knuckles.
- Nunchucks.
- Blackjacks, nightsticks, or any item intended to cause injury.
The public discharge of firearms within city limits is also prohibited.
Parental Responsibility and Penalties
Parents can face consequences if they fail to properly supervise their children, encourage or allow delinquent behavior, knowingly place their child in danger, or allow exposure to criminal activity. If a minor violates curfew or weapons laws, it may be treated as reasonable suspicion of neglect under the ordinance.
Penalties for curfew or weapons violations include:
- 1st violation: $100 fine
- 2nd violation: $250 fine
- 3rd and subsequent violations: $500 fine
- Possible criminal charges under Section 1-16 of the City Code
Parents may avoid sanctions by participating in approved parenting programs.
Community Role in Enforcement
Police urge residents to take an active role in public safety by reporting suspicious activity—especially cases involving juveniles out after curfew or carrying firearms—immediately to the Georgetown Police Department.
Brown stressed that the department’s mission is clear:
“We are committed to keeping illegal weapons out of juvenile hands and ensuring that parents are accountable for the safety of their children and our community.”
The curfew is in effect immediately and will remain active as city officials monitor its impact on juvenile crime and community safety.
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