Currently, there’s a curfew in place in Houston which means that if you’re under 18 and out on the streets past midnight, then you’ll be facing a fine of $173. Judges usually let these teen offenders of the curfew ordinance off without having to pay the steep fine (steep for the age) and require them to serve community service instead. The current curfew version has been in place since 1991 and also states that kids have to be out of the streets during school hours which is apparently 9 in the morning until 2:30 in the afternoon on weekdays.

Curfew enforcement is a about to get bumped up a notch though as HPD proposes that they can stop children under 17 after 11pm and get them home, in addition to possibly facing the hefty fee and/or probable community service.

Here’s the thing… I doubt this will make much impact on crime, incidents, whatever. I’d like for it to be a positive move forward for law enforcement but kids who are up to no good usually have someone older in their group, who meets the age requirement for staying out past curfew time, which can sometimes if I understand correctly, prevent the younger teens from getting in trouble.

When I was younger, I would be out late at night around town enjoying live music, clubs, etc. Honestly I can tell you that I never once saw some young crew get hassled by the cops, much less actually getting ticketed and picked up. I’ve never heard of this happening, either. The cops and local government are saying that a stronger curfew would reduce graffiti and gang violence but I can’t say I agree.

Mayor Bill White is backing this new curfew which is going through the political motions of local City Council right now. I’m glad he’s backing it, but I think there are more important issues at hand when it comes to reducing crime. For instance, having a increased and more widespread patrol of areas with problems, would certainly put a dent in criminal activity. Easier said than done though, right? Maybe.

It’s worth noting that there are City Council members that have voiced their opinion against the curfew and will apparently be voting “no” to stricter times for youths.