CPD warns of potential "teen takeover," reigniting curfew debate
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The Mounted Patrol Unit of Chicago Police Department downtown in 2022. Photo: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Chicago police are warning downtown residents that another "teen takeover" is anticipated for Millennium Park tonight.
Why it matters: Police say early warnings could prevent residents and tourists from getting caught in disorderly, sometimes violent, gatherings.
What they're saying: "The Chicago Police Department is aware of the social media posts circulating," CPD spokesperson Tom Ahern tells Axios. "We will continue to monitor developments to ensure sufficient resources are in place to maintain public safety."
- "As always, we ask that all those enjoying the city do so safely and responsibly."
The big picture: These gatherings have been unruly and violent in the past, including recently, when a 15-year-old was shot near the AMC River East.
Zoom in: The police department also hopes to get broader support from the City Council to address the ongoing challenges surrounding the gatherings.
The latest: Ald. Brian Hopkins is once again pushing to move the existing downtown curfew — currently set at 10pm for all teens under 18 — up to 8pm. He made a similar push last year.
- "CPD has expressed support for this already," Hopkins tells Axios. "Because when the curfew is applied, then the police can move in and remove the ring leaders, which often diffuses the situation."
The intrigue: Hopkins says an earlier curfew would give police more tools to clear the streets earlier.
- Also, he says there are no criminal charges for breaking curfew. The kids who violate are apprehended and delivered back home.
Yes, but: Ahern says the police will take enforcement action if individuals "engage in disorderly conduct or criminal activity."
Zoom out: Curfews are not new. After prominent downtown gatherings in 2022, then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot instituted temporary curfews for teens.
- The 10pm curfew was made permanent after a lengthy debate in the City Council, where opposition pointed to studies that show curfews don't work.
- The curfews have also been derided as racist, since the majority of the gatherings include Black teenagers.
The other side: Mayor Johnson opposes the earlier curfew, instead suggesting the city invest in more activities for teens to participate in.
- "Working to relocate or displace the problem is not how we solve the problem," Johnson said at a recent press conference.
Zoom out: Chicago teenagers have been gathering downtown for decades. The newer gatherings have been fueled by better coordination, thanks to social media.
What's next: The City Council could vote on the earlier curfew next week.