Full Notification

INDIANAPOLIS — In a renewed effort to ensure the safety and well-being of young people in downtown Indianapolis, IMPD Chief Chris Bailey announced today the launch of a safe and secure location where juveniles found out past curfew can be brought to reconnect with their families and access essential support services. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance weekend enforcement of Indiana’s curfew law for individuals under the age of 18. 

“This isn’t about punishment, it’s about protection,” said Chief Chris Bailey. “We’re working with our partners from across the community to do everything we can to keep young people safe and prevent further tragedy.” 

In accordance with Indiana law, the following curfew regulations will be enforced: 

       Children ages 15 to 17 are prohibited from being in public: 

• Between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday or Sunday 

• After 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday 

• Before 5 a.m. Monday through Friday
  
  Children under 15 may not be in public: 

• After 11 p.m. or before 5 a.m. on any day 

Exceptions include: 

• Youth accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult 

• Traveling to or from work, school events, religious services, or other lawful gatherings 

How it works 

Prior to enforcing curfew, IMPD officers will issue warnings to any large groups of juveniles using patrol car public address systems. These announcements will begin 30 minutes before curfew, followed by another at the 15-minute mark, and a final notice once curfew is in effect. 

If a juvenile is found in violation, officers may escort them to a designated safe and secure location, where service providers will be present to offer guidance and resources. Parents, family members, or guardians will be contacted and asked to pick up their child. If contact cannot be made, the juvenile may be taken to the Juvenile Detention Center for a curfew violation, which is status offense. This is not an arrest, and it will not appear on the child’s permanent record. 

More than just a holding place, the site connects youth and families with providers offering services such as mentorship, mental health support, education assistance, and job readiness programs. 

"This initiative is not just a response to curfew violations, it’s a doorway to opportunity for young people in the city," said OPHS Director Andrew Merkley. "We’ll be able to connect them and their families with the resources they need to thrive, not just in the moment, but long-term." 

IMPD encourages parents and guardians to know where your child is, who they’re with, and what time they’re expected home.  

Together, we can protect our youth and take back our streets, for their future, and for ours.