Greenwood’s juvenile curfew law has been on the books nearly a year, and according to Police Chief Henry Purnell, it has worked as intended.
Purnell said the curfew is effective in large part because of parents and guardians. Many started following its rules before it went into effect, he said.
The ordinance covers juveniles 17 years old and younger and is in effect all year.
From Sunday through Thursday, the curfew begins at 10 p.m. with a 30-minute grace period to allow youngsters to get home.
On Friday and Saturday nights, the curfew is 11 p.m., again with a 30-minute grace period.
Exceptions are made for high school sporting events, youth dances and other activities that end after the curfew times.
Youngsters who have jobs that end after the curfew begins need to have a note describing the location of the job and the hours of employment, the chief said.
After a first violation, parents are given a warning. On the second offense, they face a $100 ticket and a mandatory appearance in Municipal Court.
After three or more infractions, the parent or guardian will have to appear in Leflore County Youth Court.
Greenwood Mayor Carolyn McAdams said the curfew seems to be making a difference.
“I think that it has worked well for the Police Department. It makes people know that children should not be on the street without parental supervision,” she said.
Purnell said officers have been able to monitor places where juveniles typically congregate, such as convenience stores. As a result, “you no longer see that kind of activity” by those 17 and under, the chief said.
“We just ask the parents to be aware of where their children are — to make sure they go by the curfew,” he said.
• Contact Bob Darden at 581-7239 or bdarden @gwcommonwealth.com.
