The Virgin Islands Police Department announced Friday that it will begin enforcing curfew compliance for St. Thomas residents younger than 16 years old.
According to the announcement, officers will be enforcing compliance with Title 14, Section 481 Subsection b of the Virgin Islands Code, pursuant to the 10 p.m. curfew for any child younger than 16 and unaccompanied by a legally responsible adult. Any child found in violation of this law shall be taken into custody and held until released to the responsible parent or guardian, the police said.
The offending child might also be ordered to perform community service, pay a fine or both, the news release said. Repeat offenders are subject to additional penalties.
According to the department, a recent upswing in criminal activities committed by minors on St. Thomas "demands a proactive approach coupled with community partnerships." The police asked parents and guardian to work collaboratively with the department to ensure compliance with the curfew enforcement by immediately notifying the police if they have a non-compliant minor.