Fireworks Prompt Curfew For Youth

By Courtney Bledsoe

Detroit police have taken a precautionary measure as residents make their way downtown to sit by the river and watch as the sky lights up with fireworks .

In an effort to keep youths off the streets Detroit Police are enforcing a curfew. Deputy chief of the Detroit police department , Renee Hall stated their biggest problem during the event is typically with youth 17 and under, reports the Detroit News.

The curfew for youth 18 and under begins at 6 p.m Monday and ends at 6 a.m. Tuesday.

The Detroit Police Department have joined with local, state, county and federal authorities to keep things in order for the families who come each year to enjoy the festivities.

Concerns about behavioral issues surfaced after this weekend’s River Days festival. During the festival, videos surfaced of youths fighting. The festival ended on Sunday with officers arresting juveniles on felony charges, according to Detroit Police Sgt. Eren L. Stephens.

With nearly 1 million people expected to gather downtown, authorities say it’s imperative they be prepared for anything.

“Historically we have had issues where the youth come down and they are unruly. They are throwing firecrackers, trying to make people believe there are shots being fired, they are assaulting one another and rival gangs have come down. We know that this is not all young people but unfortunately the numbers of juveniles that caused a problem have made it very bad for those individuals who are not coming down to cause havoc,” Hall tells Detroit News.

Now that Belle Isle is a state park ,there are no expected issues. The island will be shut down once it has reached 90 percent capacity, which is nothing new to the residents of Detroit.

Authorities have outlined the new guidelines for this year’s event. Belle isle will be open to pedestrians and cyclist at 5 a.m. The island will be open to cars at 2 p.m.

Officials strongly urge motorists to adhere to parking laws. Tickets will be given and cars can be towed for a $215 fee. Tow lots close at 1 a.m.

If you decide not to drive, the people mover shuttle will be running from 6 a.m. to midnight.