North Wildwood Strengthens Juvenile Curfew Laws

North Wildwood Strengthens Juvenile Curfew Laws

In an effort to uphold public safety and reduce juvenile violence and crime, the Council of the City of North Wildwood has passed an ordinance amending and supplementing the city code regarding curfews for juveniles under 18 years of age.

The ordinance aims to align the city code with current state statutes and to reinforce parental responsibility for children.

The ordinance, titled “Curfew For Juveniles Under 18 Years Of Age,” establishes specific curfew hours for juveniles throughout the year. From May 15 to September 15, the curfew will be from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. seven days a week.

From September 16 to May 14, the curfew will be from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. every day.

Additionally, a curfew will be enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on Halloween night and 72 hours prior to Halloween.

Also See: Steve’s Prince of Steaks in Wildwood Is Now Open

The rationale behind the ordinance stems from the city’s interest in safeguarding public areas for citizens and visitors, reducing juvenile involvement in unlawful activities, and protecting vulnerable youths from crime.

Under New Jersey state law, municipalities have the authority to enact curfew ordinances for juveniles under 18 years of age.

The ordinance outlines several offenses and penalties:

• It is unlawful for juveniles to remain in public places, motor vehicles, or establishments during curfew hours.
• Parents, legal guardians, or caretakers who knowingly permit or encourage juveniles to violate the curfew ordinance will be subject to fines upon conviction.
• Establishment owners or employees who allow juveniles on their premises during curfew hours may also face penalties.
• The ordinance provides defenses for juveniles, such as being accompanied by a parent or guardian, attending supervised recreational activities, or being involved in emergencies.

Enforcement of the ordinance will involve a two-step warning process for juveniles.

Law enforcement officers will issue curbside warnings, giving juveniles the opportunity to leave the area.

If a juvenile refuses to comply after the second warning or if a parent, legal guardian, or caretaker is in violation of the ordinance, they may face further enforcement actions, including stationhouse adjustments and fines.

The ordinance emphasizes that the imposition of a limited curfew does not infringe on parents’ ability to direct their children and that exceptions are specific to limit police officer discretion.

Moreover, the ordinance provides detailed definitions of terms such as “emergency,” “serious bodily injury,” “establishment,” and others to ensure clarity and consistency in enforcement.

The City of North Wildwood is committed to promoting the safety and well-being of its youngest citizens, and the new ordinance reflects its dedication to creating a secure environment for all residents and visitors.