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IMPD Chief Tanya Terry, left, said young people caught violating curfew may be sent to the center, where they'll get support services and free food and drinks.
Jeremy ReubenIndianapolis police announced they will step up curfew enforcement for people under 18, targeting a period of time during spring break.
Indiana law currently states children under 15 may not be in a public place after 11 p.m. or before 5 a.m. on any day. Children 15 to 17 may not be in a public place between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday or Sunday. During weekdays, they may not be out between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Exceptions to the curfew include minors accompanied by an adult or participating in work, a school activity, a religious event or engaging in first amendment activities.
Indianapolis police and the Office of Public Health and Safety will also partner with community groups this weekend to operate what they call a Connection Center.
IMPD Chief Tanya Terry said young people caught violating curfew may be sent to the center, where they'll get support services and free food and drinks.
Terry said the goal of enforcement isn't about punishment, but protection.
"The goal is to intervene early and provide support before that young person becomes involved in something far more serious," Terry said. "Parents and guardians will be engaged in the process, because the truth is, they play the most important role."
Connection Center staff will contact parents or guardians to pick up teens and discuss resources. Youth will be sent to the juvenile detention center if they are not released to an adult. The stay will not be considered an arrest and will not create a criminal record.
Contact WFYI Digital Producer and Reporter Jeremy Reuben at jreuben@wfyi.org
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