After recently logging its 12th homicide of the year, the city of Paterson is proposing a new curfew in an attempt to curb ongoing violence.
Mayor Jose Torres first proposed a curfew for all Paterson residents from midnight to 7 a.m.; however, that ordinance failed in the city council. Now, council members are debating a modified version that would only apply to those 18 and under.
Councilman Anthony Davis says the curfew would be known as a safe haven ordinance. If passed, teenagers found on the streets past curfew would not be arrested. Instead, their parents would be contacted along with a social worker to find out what help the juvenile may need.
The amended proposal will be the subject of a special city council meeting Tuesday night. A series of Town Hall meetings will also be held for residents to speak out about the curfew.