News Summary
Charleston officials are debating a new curfew for minors in the King Street area to combat rising late-night crime. If approved, the curfew would restrict those aged 17 and younger from being out after 9 p.m., with several exemptions. This initiative follows an alarming increase in serious incidents involving youth. While the ordinance has support, critics are worried about potential racial profiling and believe community programs should address root issues of youth crime instead of merely imposing restrictions.
Charleston – City officials in Charleston are considering a new curfew aimed at minors in the King Street area, intending to address growing concerns about late-night crime. If approved, the curfew would prohibit anyone aged 17 and younger from being in the vicinity after 9 p.m.
The proposed ordinance aims to deter what officials describe as “mobs of teenagers” gathering in the popular nightlife corridor. This move is primarily in response to a spike in serious incidents involving juveniles that have occurred in the area since the beginning of the year. Data reveals that over 40 significant late-night incidents involving youth have been reported in the central business district since January 2024.
The curfew, if enacted, would take effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. every night during the months of June, July, and August, extending to Thursdays through Sundays through the remainder of the year. Exceptions will be made for minors accompanied by an adult, those engaged in work or school activities, attending religious or civic functions, or engaging in peaceful protests.
The ordinance has gained unanimous support from the Public Safety Committee and will be presented to the full City Council on May 27 for final consideration. This initiative is part of broader efforts designed to enhance safety across busy nightlife areas during periods when alcohol-related incidents commonly occur.
Concerns and Criticism
In response to the alarming rise in incidents, the Charleston Police Department is working on developing a yearlong program that aims to focus on the needs of at-risk youth. This initiative will include provisions for mentorship and cognitive behavioral therapy, which are designed to provide constructive support rather than punitive measures.
Historical Context
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston County Reviews Animal Welfare Ordinances
Devastating Tornado Strikes St. Louis, Leaving Five Dead
Charleston County Faces Urgent Need for New Landfill Site
Tragic Loss: Community Mourns 9-Year-Old Boy Swept Away by Floods
Sunday Recovery Market Coming to Charleston!
Tropical Storm Debby Hits South Carolina: A Community in Crisis
Kamala Harris Tours Wildfire-Affected Pacific Palisades
North Charleston Prepares for Mayor’s State of the City Address
Charleston Mayor Cogswell Marks First Year in Office
Wildfires Devastate Los Angeles Communities
Additional Resources
- Count On 2: 16 Indicted for Drug Trafficking
- Wikipedia: Curfew
- Post and Courier: Money Laundering in Charleston
- Google Search: Youth Crime Prevention
- Post and Courier: Harvest Market on James Island
- Google Scholar: Juvenile Delinquency and Curfew
- Count On 2: Sexual Assault Suspect Identification
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Youth Crime
- Count On 2: Charleston County Animal Welfare Ordinance
- Google News: Charleston Crime
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
