ST. LOUIS — St. Louis officials on Wednesday announced new weekend operations plans to keep the city safe, following a violent weekend marked by chaotic street takeovers and shootings, many involving young adults and teenagers.
St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer announced an executive order for a temporary youth curfew in response to the chaotic weekend, along with other measures, as spring break continues and a large amount of visitors are expected in the city for the NCAA Tournament.
The mayor’s office said with input from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the St. Louis Board of Aldermen and business community stakeholders, it would be implementing the following measures:
- A 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew this weekend, Friday through Sunday, for people 17 and younger in the Downtown and Downtown West neighborhoods.
- Calming measures deployed by the Streets Department measures in areas at risk of “dangerous driving incidents.”
- Increased enforcement of current liquor and occupancy laws
- Behavioral Health Response officers will be available through the Office of Violence Prevention to work alongside law enforcement engaging with juveniles, to connect youth with appropriate services.
During curfew hours, young people should not be in the Downtown or Downtown West neighborhoods unless they meet exceptions such as being with a parent or guardian, being with an adult 21 or older approved by a parent, being outside their home or next door neighbor’s home, or going straight home after work, school, or religious or community events.
St. Louis police responded to at least five shootings and multiple street takeovers on 314 Day weekend. Several people were injured, including a 14-year-old girl…