Description of Strategy
Curfew ordinances restrict the hours that minors are permitted on streets or in public places at night. A curfew may help reduce the likelihood that minors will be the victims of criminal acts or become involved in criminal acts during curfew hours, including alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. Curfew ordinances may also aid parents and guardians in their responsibility to supervise their children as well as give police officers additional control over juvenile activity taking place after curfew hours (WyPTAC, 2009).
Wyoming does not have a state curfew ordinance, but many municipalities have curfew ordinances in place (State of Wyoming, 2010).
Discussion of Effectiveness
Alcohol
No studies were found that evaluated the effectiveness of curfew ordinances on outcomes related to alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.
Evidence from research that evaluated the effects of teen curfew on juvenile arrest rates, criminal offense behavior, and victimization does not support the effectiveness of curfew programs (Adams, 2003; Sutphen & Ford, 2001). A systematic review also concluded juvenile curfews were ineffective in reducing crime, but found some evidence that they may reduce vehicle fatalities and arrest rates (University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, 2016).
Tobacco
No studies were found that evaluated the effectiveness of curfew ordinances on outcomes related to alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.
Prescription & Other Drugs
No studies were found that evaluated the effectiveness of curfew ordinances on outcomes related to alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.