Phoenix Police say that due to an increase in violent crime at previous First Fridays Art Walk & Market, officers will enforce juvenile curfew violations during this month’s upcoming event in downtown Phoenix.
According to the Phoenix Police Department, any juvenile under the age of 16 not accompanied by a parent, guardian or adult after 10 p.m. will be arrested and cited. Any juvenile over the age of 16 not accompanied by a parent, guardian or adult after midnight will be arrested and cited.
The Department hopes that enforcing the curfew laws will bring a reduction in violent crime towards teenagers and improve the experience of people attending First Friday.
The First Friday Art Walk is a free, all-ages event that draws thousands of attendees spread out across dozens of Phoenix city blocks and nearly 100 businesses. According to the event’s website, “First Friday festivities technically take place from 6 to 10 p.m. Depending on the time of year, you’ll likely see a handful of vendors setting up, as well as foot traffic before 6. By 7 the sidewalks start filling up, and by 8 the event is in full swing. Some venues and vendors stay open beyond 10 p.m. If you’re looking to linger longer, we recommend checking in advance or asking around as you go.”