SALISBURY ó With school out for the summer, city officials are reminding parents of the cityís curfew for children.
The law, which went into effect July 1, 2009, makes it unlawful for anyone younger than 16 to be in public places without a parent or appointed guardian from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Police Chief Rory Collins said in a city press release the intent of the curfew is to protect children from ěvictimization and exposure to criminal activityî and ěis intended to reinforce the role of the parent in raising and guiding their children. As always, we encourage all parents to be responsible for the whereabouts of their children.î
Salisbury Mayor Susan Kluttz said the curfew ordinance ěallows our officers to intervene and take the necessary steps to protect our local youth and to derail serious problems that can occur in the late hours. This ordinance is supportive in protecting the community, our citizens, and for creating a positive future for our youth. As council members, we are dedicated to taking any and all steps necessary to protect the children of Salisbury.î
The ordinance includes exceptions for youths traveling to and from school or work, responding to emergencies and going to religious and civic-sponsored events.
For a copy of the ordinance, go to the Salisbury Police Department at 130 E. Liberty Street or online at www.salisburync.gov and click on the Youth Protection and Curfew Ordinance link under the heading of Highlights.