New Jersey May Enforce Adult Curfew in Effort to Lower Crime
Law enforcement and government officials are considering implementing a mandatory curfew for people of all ages in Paterson, New Jersey, due to an influx in homicides and gun-related crimes seen so far this year. According to a newjerseynewsroom.com report, Paterson, as largely populated city in New Jersey, has experienced 30 shootings already this year, including 6 New Jersey homicides. If the measure gets approved after the City Council reviews it on September 1, the curfew would last for two months and dissuade individuals from loitering outside from midnight to 7a.m. Those who violate the curfew could be penalized with a $2,000 fine and a 90-day jail sentence.
Mayor Jose Torres stated, “We’re trying to think outside the box…this was triggered predominantly by fear among city residents over the shootings that have been occurring this summer.”
If the curfew measure passes, it would be the nation’s first citywide, non-emergency curfew to include adults.
Although crime prevention is important in maintaining the safety of our communities, this curfew raises questions as to how law enforcement will identify loitering, which can be a very loose term. However, this measure would not apply to people in transit during the designated hours, so people in Paterson won’t feel like they are literally locked up in their own homes. Even if the City Council agrees on the measure, a second vote will be needed as would a public hearing before the curfew goes into effect.
At Lependorf & Silverstein, our skilled New Jersey criminal defense attorneys will keep our readers updated on the status of this measure, which will greatly influence the daily lives of residents and visitors alike. If you are being accused of a crime in New Jersey, you deserve to know your legal rights and what options are available to you. For more information regarding what can be done to build you a strong defense in your New Jersey criminal case, contact the New Jersey criminal defense law firm at Lependorf & Silverstein today by calling 609-240-0040.
Source article:http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/state/city-of-paterson-considers-adult-curfew-to-curb-crime
