New ordinance would give Chicago police power to enforce temporary curfews

CHICAGO - Chicago may soon give police the authority to temporarily impose curfews for teens across the city during emergencies or unrest.

What we know:

A proposed ordinance revision would allow police commanders or ranking officers to issue temporary citywide curfews for unaccompanied minors "anytime one presents itself," according to Ald. Brian Hopkins of the 2nd Ward.

The curfew would remain in effect for the duration of the incident and expire once peace is restored.

The backstory:

The debate over an earlier downtown curfew arose after a string of violent incidents in recent weeks during large gatherings of young people in the downtown area.

In one incident on March 9, a 46-year-old woman visiting Chicago was shot while walking with her son in the Streeterville neighborhood. A 15-year-old boy was charged in connection with that shooting.

Then, on March 28, a 15-year-old boy was shot and suffered a graze wound to his leg in the downtown area, and a 14-year-old boy was charged this week in connection with that shooting.

"I heard three gunshots and saw the kid drop to the ground," witness Alley Cowett said. "I saw a girl running toward my apartment screaming. I believe a curfew will help."

Downtown residents and some officials, like Hopkins, have argued that an earlier curfew could help curb such incidents.

What they're saying:

Mayor Brandon Johnson, who had initially opposed changes to the curfew policy, now supports the proposal.

"It’s a holistic approach and step in the right direction, as more voices play a part in the development of a solution," Johnson said.

When asked about the deal on Wednesday, the Chicago Police Department said in a statement:

"The Chicago Police Department works closely with partners across all levels of government to address public safety in our city. We have been working with members of City Council to discuss safety around large gatherings and potential solutions that will strengthen safety when these gatherings occur."

The other side:

ACLU representatives are calling the ordinance draft "vague and concerning without guardrails."

"Curfews haven't worked for decades. We have a curfew now. It hasn't solved this problem," said Alexandra Block. "What it is gonna do is send a message to young Black people that they aren't wanted downtown."

What's next:

Ald. Hopkins said talks still need to be had regarding training and enforcement of the proposed curfew.

The proposed citywide curfew for unaccompanied minors will likely be voted on next month.