When it comes to minors in Indianapolis, Indiana, there are certain laws in place to protect them and ensure their safety. The curfew laws are designed to keep minors off the streets late at night and out of harm's way. In general, children under the age of 15 must be home by 11 p.m. on weeknights and 1 a.m.
on weekends. For those aged 15-17, the curfew is 11 p.m. on weekends. However, there are some exceptions to these rules. Under Indiana state law, a town or city has the power to adjust the curfew law by delaying the start time of the curfew by no more than two hours if the minor is with their parents or someone with an adult who has been approved by one of the parents.
Additionally, they have the power to adjust the curfew law to delay the start time by no more than four hours in cemeteries. It is also important to note that it is a defense to an offense under this chapter that the child is accompanied by their parent, guardian, or someone specified by their parent or guardian; is involved in an emergency involving protection from an imminent threat of serious bodily harm or substantial harm; is involved in an activity protected by federal or state law such as freedom of expression and the right to assemble; or is involved in an activity conducted by a government or nonprofit entity that provides recreation, education, training, or other care under the supervision of one (or more) adults. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) is currently developing a campaign to remind parents of the curfew laws and encourage them to keep track of their children's whereabouts. They are also working on a public service announcement that asks: “It's ten o'clock. Do you know where your children are?”As summer approaches and we see and read more reports of minors getting into trouble and committing crimes, it's important for parents to understand the curfew laws in Indianapolis and take responsibility for their children's safety. The IMPD has taken steps to ensure that parents are aware of these laws and can take action to protect their children from harm. They have developed a campaign to remind parents of the curfew laws and encourage them to keep track of their children's whereabouts.
Additionally, they have created a public service announcement that asks: “It's ten o'clock. Do you know where your children are?”Ultimately, following curfew laws in Indianapolis can help keep minors safe and out of harm's way. It is essential that parents understand these laws and take responsibility for their children's safety.
