Denver increasing curfew enforcement

Denver police will begin active enforcement of the city's curfew starting Friday night.

Denver’s curfew ordinance prohibits youth, 17 and under, from being in a public place, or on public property, from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight to 5 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

There are exceptions for juveniles accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian; if they are in a vehicle being used in interstate travel; if they are working or traveling to or from work; or if they are participating in activities sponsored by a school, religious organization or city organization.

Police said the curfew is enforced year-round. However, juveniles found breaking the curfew ordinance during the increased enforcement period, April 1 to Sept. 30, are taken to the Denver Juvenile Services Center at 303 W. Colfax Ave.

"Their parents are contacted and a citation is issued," Denver Police said in a news release.

Those cited for the first time are given the option of participating in a diversion program. Once the plan is successfully completed, the case is dismissed without a court appearance.