The city of McFarland has implemented a new curfew for teenagers. But it doesn't take place at night.
Teens between the ages of 12 and 17 will soon not allowed to be on the streets, without an adult or good reason, during school hours. “Statistically its been shown that kids that are not in school get in trouble doing petty crimes and things,” McFarland Police Sgt. Alan Ghasserani said.
The recently formed McFarland Police Department is not only hoping the daytime curfew takes a bite out of crime, but also gives parents a helping hand to get a slacking teen back in school. “Sometimes parents are not sure how to get kids in school. It's just another resource for them to help them in that way,” Ghasserani said.
The McFarland city council approved the daytime teen curfew Thursday night. It goes into effect in 30 days. It does not apply to students who are 18 or older, or if they are going to or from work, an appointment, or have a legitimate reason to be on the street.
“The curfew is a good ordinance for the city of McFarland. It's a good tool for law enforcement to use to help kids, keep them safe, keep them in school,” Ghasserani said.
Officers also say it's a benefit to schools themselves, because the more students who show up to class, the more money the schools get.
