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Manatee County approves juvenile curfew after heated debate; sheriff vows education-first enforcement
Summary
The Manatee County Commission voted 5–2 on Nov. 18 to adopt an ordinance imposing a local curfew for minors under 16, prompting a long public debate about enforcement, equity and parental authority. Sheriff Wells said deputies will emphasize warnings and parents will be contacted before penalties.
The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners on Nov. 18 adopted an ordinance establishing a local juvenile curfew for people under 16, setting hours Sunday–Thursday from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and Friday–Saturday and holidays from 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m. The measure passed 5–2 after more than an hour of public comment and commissioner debate.
Supporters framed the ordinance as a public‑safety and prevention tool. Omar Edwards, associate director for strategic planning at the School District of Manatee County, told commissioners curfews reduce exposure to crime and risky behavior and cited studies…
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