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Why have a curfew?
Prior to 1980, the residents of unincorporated Arapahoe County were experiencing problems related to juveniles loitering and
creating late night disturbances. Neighborhoods were plagued with juvenile vandalism, reckless drivers, trespassing, and loud
juvenile parties. In May 1980, the Arapahoe County Commissioners established curfew ordinances directed at minors that makes
the minor and their parents and/or guardians equally responsible for the actions of the children. In 1995, the curfew ordinance
was rewritten making a violation of curfew a strict liability offense. Ordinance 95-1 authorizes Sheriff's deputies to detain
and issue a written court summons to juvenile curfew violators. County Ordinance 95-2 authorizes Sheriff's deputies to detain
and issue a written court summons to parents and guardians who allow juveniles to violate the County Curfew.
The County Curfew has helped discourage juvenile victimization and criminal conduct. It has placed the responsibility on parents
and guardians to properly supervise their children. It has also assisted law enforcement in preserving the peace and order
for the citizens of unincorporated Arapahoe County.
Violation of the County Curfew is a class 2 petty offense and is punishable upon conviction by up to 9 months in jail and/or
up to a $300 fine.
What does a curfew prevent?
Without a curfew, juveniles may be given more of an opportunity to commit the following crimes, and upon conviction could
receive the following sentences:
1. Criminal Mischief (vandalism) - ranges from a class 3 misdemeanor to a class 3 felony depending on the dollar amount of
the damage.
2. Possession or Use of Alcohol by a Minor - a petty offense with fines up to $100.
3. Disorderly Conduct (rowdiness, fighting) - ranges from a class 1 petty offense to a class 2 misdemeanor.
4. Trespass - ranges from a class 1 petty offense to a class 5 felony, depending on the type of property or structure entered.
Theft and/or Theft of a Motor Vehicle - ranges from a class 3 misdemeanor to a to a class 3 felony, depending on the total
dollar amount of items taken.
What time is curfew in effect?
Curfew Hours are before 5 a.m. on any day ... Sunday thru Thursday 11p.m. Friday and Saturday or any day preceding an official
State Holiday midnight.
What age applies to the curfew?
Juveniles under the age of 18 are accountable to curfew hours in the unincorporated area of Arapahoe County.
Are there exemptions to the curfew?
Yes, the following are exceptions to curfew violations:
- When accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other adult person having legal custody of such minor; or
- When the minor is engaged in lawful employment that requires the minor to violate the curfew; or
- When such minor is in the custody of, or accompanied by a person who has reached his or her 18th birthday, and has in his
or her possession the written consent of such parent or guardian, or the person having legal care or custody of the minor.
- When the minor is legally emancipated.
What happens if I violate the curfew?
If you are a minor:
- You may be detained by a law enforcement officer;
- Your parents and/or legal guardians will be required to respond and take custody of you;
- You may be issued a summons that requires your appearance in the County Court;
- When making your court appearance, your parents or guardian must come with you;
- If found guilty, the Judge may impose fines, incarceration, and/or probation.
If you are a parent or guardian:
- You may be detained by a law enforcement officer;
- You will be required to respond and take custody of your child;
- If you allowed your child to violate the curfew, you may be issued a summons that requires your appearance in the County Court;
- If found guilty, the Judge may impost fines, incarceration and/or probation.
If you have any additional questions regarding the county curfew ordinance please contact us at 303-795-4711.
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