As Crime Town Faces Increasing Violations, Longer Curfew Being Considered
Chief Minister Eva Lawler stated that some families are facing challenges in ensuring that their children are following the rules and boundaries set for them.
Amid a surge in crime in Alice Springs, an emergency youth curfew might span the entire school holidays due to ongoing violations of the overnight ban.
On Sunday, March 31, twenty-five youths breached the curfew and were escorted home with support services extended to their families, according to Northern Territory Chief Minister Eva Lawler.
Ms. Lawler remarked on April 1 that “Some families are really struggling to make sure that their children are doing the right thing, that they have those boundaries in place.”
She also indicated that the curfew could be extended beyond its current timeframe, covering Easter and the beginning of the school holidays.
This potential extension aims to address the issue of curfew violations and ensure adherence to set restrictions during the school break.
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An emergency 14-day curfew was put in place following a series of disturbances on March 26, triggered by an incident at Todd Tavern in the town.
Violence persisted during the evening as community members grieved the teenager’s death, leading to clashes involving up to 150 people in town camps.
The curfew, which was implemented on March 27, prohibited individuals aged under 19 from entering Alice Springs CBD between 6pm and 6am.
Ms. Lawler expressed satisfaction that more families have sought assistance to better supervise their children since the enforcement of the curfew.
The majority of Alice Springs residents welcomed the curfew as it brought a sense of relief to the town of roughly 30,000 inhabitants.
The Chief Minister noted that there has been a noticeable reduction in crime levels outside the CBD, indicating that the curfew has had a positive impact on the community.
She commended the efforts of law enforcement in implementing the curfew effectively.
Escalating tensions in the town were exacerbated by the tragic death of an 18-year-old in a car accident earlier in March.
The individual passed away after a car, which he was hanging out of the window of, crashed in Alice Springs CBD and was abandoned by its occupants.
The attack on Todd Tavern resulted in approximately $30,000 (US$19,552) worth of damages.
Following the emergency declaration, additional police personnel were deployed to Alice Springs to maintain peace.
Police confiscated over 50 weapons, including spears, axes, and clubs, following the clashes in town camps on March 26.
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