ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — Dougherty County’s new youth curfew has no set end date, and minors who violate it could face a misdemeanor charge, according to county leaders.

The curfew applies to anyone 17 or younger. It took effect Nov. 2 when county commissioners unanimously adopted the ordinance.

What happens if a minor violates the curfew?

Lt. J.C. Phillips with the Dougherty County Police Department said officers who encounter a minor during curfew hours will identify the child, have them present ID, contact a parent or guardian and turn the child over to them. He said a violation can also result in a misdemeanor charge handled through juvenile court.

When asked how officers would handle resistance from minors, Phillips said they would use their judgment.

“The compliance is going to be expected and officers have to just take the best course of action to gain that compliance,” Phillips said.

County leaders said parents could also face a penalty if their children violate the curfew.

Police will collect data and compare crime stats to see whether there is a reduction, Phillips said. He said juvenile court will also track how cases referred to it are resolved.

What activities are available for young people?

Commission Chairman Lorenzo Heard said he hopes local law enforcement, and city and county commissioners can work together to find more activities for young people.

He said the county board is relying on city leaders to create activities for young people and pointed to the events the Albany Police Department hosted earlier this year.

“We want to partner with parents. We need parents to take leadership with their young people, make sure they’re in the house,” he said.

Are there exceptions?

The ordinance allows exceptions for situations including lawful employment, school, sports, and recreational activities, as well as certain travel to and from those activities.

Other exceptions include:

• being accompanied by a parent, guardian, or qualifying adult 21 or older with lawful care or custody
• certain emergency errands
• First Amendment-protected activities
• specified motor vehicle travel
• being legally emancipated

Heard said commissioners wanted to account for young people who work late or are returning from sports while setting boundaries to help keep them safe.

“We’re not trying to restrict anyone or limit anyone from doing what he or she needs to do,” Heard said.

What are the curfew hours?

The curfew runs from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday nights and from midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday nights.

During those hours, the ordinance restricts minors from loitering, wandering, strolling, or playing in certain public places, streets, and parks. There are exceptions.

Chairman Heard said the curfew will remain in place unless commissioners change it.

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