LGPD increasing curfew ordinance education/enforcement following juvenile-involved crime increase

LA GRANDE – (Release from the La Grande police department. Generic image used for background.)  The La Grande Police Department, in conjunction with the Union County Juvenile Department, has observed a significant increase in criminal activities involving minors, primarily occurring late at night. To address this concern and ensure the safety of all community members, we would like to remind everyone of the City of La Grande Ordinance (#2914) concerning curfew regulations.

According to Ordinance #2914, it is unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years to be in or upon any street, park, or other public place between the hours of 10:30 PM and 6:00 AM when there is school the following day. If there is no school the next day, the curfew is adjusted to between 12:00 AM (Midnight) and 6:00 AM. Exceptions to this ordinance include minors accompanied by a parent, guardian, or another person aged 21 years or older who is authorized by the parent or by law to have care and custody of the minor. Additionally, minors engaged in school activities or lawful employment that requires them to be out during these hours are also exempt.

Any minor found violating the curfew will be returned to their guardian and referred to the Juvenile Department for further action. Moreover, it is important to remind parents and guardians that allowing minors to be out during curfew hours is also a violation. Under ORS 163.577, Failure to Supervise a Child is classified as a Class A Violation, and any parent or guardian found in breach of this law could be cited.

In response to the rising incidents, the La Grande Police Department will intensify its efforts in both education and enforcement of the curfew ordinance to mitigate criminal activities during night hours. Our goal is to foster a safer community for all residents by ensuring adherence to these regulations.

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Elkhorn Media Group