tribe imposes curfew for minors amid rise in violent crimes
In response to a recent surge in violent crime, the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona has implemented a temporary curfew for all members under the age of 18. The curfew, which spans from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. every night, will remain in effect until March 9. This decision was made by Stephen Roe Lewis, the governor of the Gila River Indian Community, who declared a public safety emergency to address the growing concerns within the community. Lewis emphasized the importance of protecting the youth and urged all members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or criminal activities to the Gila River Police Department.
The announcement of the curfew coincided with a shooting incident within the community, as reported by the Gila River Police Department on Facebook. This incident, combined with a troubling increase in crime, prompted the tribe to take immediate action. In January alone, the police responded to at least four missing persons reports, 65 assaults, and 17 drug-related cases, among other crimes. These statistics highlight the severity of the situation and the need for urgent measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the community, particularly its young members.
The extent of the increase in violent crime, however, remains unclear, as does whether a specific incident directly led to the tribe’s decision to impose the curfew. Both the police department and tribal officials declined to provide further comments, leaving some questions unanswered. Despite this lack of clarity, the tribe has taken a proactive approach to address the issue, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining public safety.
Those who fail to adhere to the curfew will face potential civil or criminal penalties, as outlined in the announcement. This includes not only minors but also adults who allow or encourage a minor to violate the curfew. Exceptions to the rule will be made in cases of emergencies, work, school, or when a young person is accompanied by a parent or guardian. These exceptions aim to balance the need for safety with the practical realities of daily life, ensuring that the curfew does not unduly restrict legitimate activities.
This is not the first time the Gila River Indian Community has taken such measures to address public safety concerns. Last year, the tribe temporarily banned dances following a tragic incident in which a tribal police officer was fatally shot and another was wounded while responding to a disturbance in one of the community’s districts. This previous incident underscores the ongoing challenges the community faces in maintaining order and protecting its members, particularly in the face of violent crime.
The implementation of the curfew reflects the tribe’s efforts to safeguard its youth and restore a sense of security within the community. While the curfew is a temporary measure, it highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and cooperation among all members. By encouraging community involvement and adherence to the new guidelines, the Gila River Indian Community hopes to curb the recent surge in violent crime and create a safer environment for everyone.
