DETROIT – Detroit police Chief Todd Bettison is addressing the department’s increased enforcement of the city’s minor curfew rules as officials continue responding to concerns about teen violence during the summer months.
Bettison provided an update to the Detroit City Council on Tuesday (June 23), outlining how the department is enforcing curfew violations while also connecting families with resources and support services.
The chief said the department has seen an increase in curfew violations over the past several months as warmer weather brings more young people into public spaces.
Detroit recorded 103 curfew violations in April and 92 violations in May, according to Bettison.
Bettison said the department saw a significant increase during the Ford Fireworks event, with roughly 180 curfew violations reported.
The city implemented a temporary expanded curfew ahead of Monday’s fireworks, requiring minors to be accompanied by an adult after 8 p.m.
The temporary restriction ended at 6 a.m. Tuesday.
Bettison told council members that the goal is not only enforcement but also addressing underlying issues that may contribute to repeated violations.
He said all curfew cases are handled by the same judge in the 36th District Court, where families can be connected with services if they are unable to pay fines or need additional support.
“Parents, if they don’t, you know, they can’t pay the fine, or they don’t want to pay the fine, there’s an alternative where they can go through parental responsibility course training,” Bettison said. “Different avenues for the juveniles.”
Bettison said the court process allows officials to look more deeply into possible causes of violations, including challenges families may be facing.
“The 36th District Court really works on addressing the root cause of the problem because some parents may have a substance use disorder, you know, where it’s a bigger issue,” Bettison said. “Now, before the court was brought to the court’s attention, he will work on ensuring that they get into whatever specialty program is going to really deal with the root cause.”
The update comes as city leaders continue focusing on youth safety efforts following recent concerns involving large gatherings, violence, and juvenile activity.
Bettison said the department will continue balancing enforcement with efforts to provide resources and intervention for families across Detroit.