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Chesterfield County approves juvenile curfew ordinance after heated public hearing
Summary
After a lengthy public hearing with residents, law‑enforcement officials and school-district staff weighing in, Chesterfield County Council approved a juvenile curfew ordinance (11 p.m.–6 a.m.) with enumerated exceptions and penalties 'not to exceed $500.' Supporters cited recent juvenile violence; opponents raised constitutional and enforcement concerns.
Chesterfield County Council approved a countywide juvenile curfew ordinance on third reading after an extensive public hearing and council discussion.
The ordinance sets curfew hours from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and includes specified exceptions: travel to or from employment, accompaniment by a parent or guardian, emergencies, attendance at school, religious or recreational activities, and the exercise of First Amendment rights. The draft also includes a parental‑cooperation defense: parents who contact law enforcement and cooperate would not be charged.
During the public hearing, opponents argued the ordinance risks Fourth, Fourteenth and First Amendment infringements, inconsistent enforcement and discriminatory impacts. Angela Sanderson urged rejection on constitutional and civil‑liberties grounds and recommended investment in mentorship and community programs instead of a sweeping curfew measure. Several commenters described family, economic and logistical hardships that could follow enforcement. Supporters — including the coroner, law‑enforcement representatives and residents with public‑safety concerns — said the curfew is intended as a targeted tool to address juvenile violence and drive‑by shootings and to provide a mechanism for holding parents accountable when juveniles commit crimes at night.
County Attorney Colleen Bryant said the ordinance was crafted with the solicitor, sheriff and school district and is intended to balance parental rights with the county’s interest in public safety. Sheriff’s office speakers emphasized officer discretion and that routine activities (e.g., work, hunting, fishing) would be excepted and not the focus of enforcement.
Council members discussed outreach efforts — the school district said it had distributed flyers and FAQs and planned targeted education — and clarified that fines under the ordinance are listed as amounts "not to exceed $500," allowing for lower penalties depending on circumstances. After debate, the council approved the ordinance on third reading by voice vote. The measure will proceed to implementation with staff coordination between the sheriff's office, school district and solicitor.
