PUBLIC NOTICE

Town of Hamlin Enacts Curfew

Responding to increased expressions of concern from merchants and residents about minors who are seen alone or together on public streets, parks or other public places late at night and into the early morning hours, the Hamlin Town Board enacted a local curfew law for the Town at their December 10 meeting.  Considering not only the complaints received, the Board also determined that similar laws in neighboring municipalities have contributed to reducing juvenile crime and vandalism, reinforced parental authority and helped to protect the children. 

The law states that it is unlawful for any minor to remain in or upon any public street, sidewalk, park, vacant lot or other public place between the hours of 11 p.m. of any day from Sunday through Thursdays and 5 a.m. of the following day, or between the hours of 11:59 p.m. of any Friday or Saturday and 5 a.m. of the following day.  A minor is any individual who hasn’t attained the age of 18.

Exceptions to the law include any time the minor is accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or responsible person over the age of 21 who is approved by the minor’s parents or legal guardian; if the minor is legally employed for the period from one-half hour before to one-half hour after work, while proceeding directly to or from work and home; if coming directly home from a school activity or an activity of a religious or other voluntary association, or a place of public entertainment, such as a movie, play or sporting event.  The latter exception applies for one-half hour after the completion of the event, but not beyond 1:30 a.m.  An exception also pertains if the minor is expressing first amendment rights protected by the Constitution, such as free exercise of religion, speech, or assembly, provided the minor first has given notice to the Town’s Code Enforcement Officer by delivering written communication signed by the minor and countersigned by a parent or guardian specifying what first amendment purposes the minor will be in public during the curfew period.

Local law enforcement officers are authorized to enforce the curfew.  Failure to comply with the law is considered a violation as defined in the New York State Penal Law and penalties may be imposed thereunder.  The local law takes effect upon filing with the Secretary of State.  A complete copy of the curfew law may be obtained by contacting the Hamlin Town Clerk.