This chapter shall be known and may be referred to as the "Curfew
Ordinance."
This is a chapter prescribing regulations for the conduct of
minors in public places in West Manheim Township during specified
hours. This chapter has the following purposes:
A. The enforcement
of parental control and parental responsibility;
B. The protection
of the public from nocturnal mischief by minors and the reduction
of juvenile criminal activity;
C. The furtherance
of family responsibility; and
D. The public
good, safety and general welfare.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated, unless a different meaning clearly appears from
the context:
MINOR
Person under the age of 18 years.
PARENT
Any natural parent of a minor, as herein defined, or a guardian,
or any adult person responsible for the care and custody of a minor.
When used in this chapter, "parent" shall mean one or both parents.
PUBLIC SPACE
Any public street, alley, sidewalk, park, playground, public
building or vacant lot within West Manheim Township.
REMAIN
To stay behind, or tarry unnecessarily upon the streets.
Not to include minors involved in emergencies or ordinary purposes
such as mere passage through the Township, returning home directly
from school activities or a place of employment.
It shall be unlawful for minors to be in or upon, or to remain
in or upon, any public space in the West Manheim Township at night
after the hour of 11:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. the following morning,
prevailing time, unless such minor is accompanied by any parent, guardian
or other person having the legal custody of such minor.
It shall be unlawful for any parent, guardian, or person having
legal care or custody of a minor to intentionally or knowingly permit
such minor to violate any provisions of this chapter.
The police officers of the Township, in taking minors into custody
under this chapter, shall use their discretion in determining age
and in doubtful cases may require positive proof, and, until such
proof is furnished, the officer's judgment shall prevail.