NCJ Number
186870
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 64 Issue: 2 Dated: December 2000 Pages: 58-63
Editor(s)
Ronald P. Corbett Jr.,
M. Kay Harris
Date Published
2000
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article reviews research on curfew laws, especially the requirements and status of current laws and the impact of curfew laws on juvenile crime.
Abstract
Provisions of curfew laws vary from area to area, but their basic elements are similar. Among cities with a population of 100,000 or more, the upper age subject to curfew laws ranges from 14 to 17 years, with 16 and 17 years being the most common choices. Curfews usually begin between 10:00 p.m. and midnight, and they usually end between 4:00 and 6:00 a.m. Sanctions and enforcement procedures differ more across jurisdictions than the requirements of curfew laws. Some police departments take violators into custody, while other police departments cite them, return them to their homes, or simply tell them to move along. The most common penalties for curfew violations are fines for juveniles or their parents, community service work, and diversion to counseling programs. Despite their favor among local officials, the legal status of curfew laws is problematic. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly refused to rule on their constitutionality, and State and Federal courts have issued conflicting decisions. In looking at the criminology of curfew laws, the article reviews arguments in favor of and against curfew laws. Research on the effects of curfew laws is examined that shows curfew laws are not effective in reducing overall rates of juvenile crime. 35 references