×
X logo

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox.

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)

You may opt-out anytime by clicking "unsubscribe" from the newsletter or from your account.

Wheeling’s Curfew Law Is Not Child’s Play

Chief Hopes Council Will Update Code Language

Photo by Ian Hicks Night falls over the playground at Belle Isle Park on Wheeling Island. The city’s curfew for minors is 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

WHEELING — It’s 10 p.m. on a weeknight in Wheeling. The time might not be significant to adults, but for young people under the age of 18, it has plenty of meaning.

Wheeling has had a curfew for minors in place for decades. When the city’s population was bursting with young baby boomers, the local fire houses would soun their fire whistles at 10 p.m. to let juveniles know it was time to get off the streets.

It also was a good way to remind children and their parents that it was time to call it a night.

The city ordinance states that “no minor shall remain idle … either on foot or cruise about without a destination between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday unless accompanied by an adult or guardian.”

Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger said he agrees with a curfew, but leaves it up to the discretion of his officers whether to issue citations or simply call the parents to take their children home.

The chief said while the intent of the law is good, some of the wording is outdated.

For instance, the ordinance states that when a police officer detains a minor for a curfew violation, the officer is to notify the chief, who in turn will call the parents or guardians.

The code also states that any church, school or organization holding an event for juveniles shall register the event with the police department.

“That just doesn’t happen,” Schwertfeger said. “I’m hoping council can take a look at the code and change some of the antiquated wording.”

With most young people carrying cellphones, it’s easier to contact a parent or legal guardian when a minor is found in violation of the curfew ordinance.

“It’s just like any other law we enforce. It’s a safety issue,” the chief added. “If a juvenile is coming home from work or a school event after curfew, we understand that. But if I come across a minor out at 3 a.m. and walking down the street, that’s different.”

Ultimately it is the parents’ or guardians’ responsibility to know where their children are at curfew time, the chief said. However, the code also directs other adults concerning the curfew. It states, “No person, firm or corporation operating or having charge of any public place shall knowingly permit the presence of minors under the age of 18” without a parent or guardian between the hours outlined in the ordinance.

Officers often respond to after-curfew activity at some “hot spots” in the city. Police can be found patrolling the Mount Wood Overlook on a regular basis, as it has been a popular site for juveniles to hang out.

Susan Mortakis, deputy chief probation officer in Ohio County, has seen her share of juvenile issues. She believes a curfew is appropriate for children and adds teeth to a parent’s own curfew.

“It’s a good tool for parents. It is a city ordinance and they do give out tickets for multiple curfew violations,” she said.

Mortakis said some parents choose to look the other way regarding their children and the curfew. However, she said a curfew is also good for the safety of young people.

She said minors may be out after the curfew if they have legitimate reasons, such as traveling to and from a job or school activity.

“He or she can’t just be standing out on the corner doing nothing. It is for their own safety,” Mortakis added.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today