Florence, S.C., October 22, 2025
News Summary
Following a recent shooting incident involving a 15-year-old suspect, the city of Florence is emphasizing its juvenile curfew policy. The curfew, which has been in place since the 1990s, mandates that individuals under 17 must be accompanied by an adult from midnight to 6 a.m. Officials are considering stricter enforcement and penalties for parents to manage youth-related crime effectively. Community leaders support these measures to ensure safety for young residents.
Florence, S.C. – The city of Florence is reiterating its juvenile curfew policy following a weekend shooting incident that involved a 15-year-old suspect. The shooting took place on West Evans Street early Saturday morning, just after 1 a.m. The police have confirmed the apprehension of the minor shortly after the incident, and a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered.
The juvenile curfew ordinance, which has been in effect since the 1990s, requires that individuals under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m. Moreover, those who are 16 years old or younger are prohibited from being in public places unsupervised during these hours. Failure to comply with this ordinance may result in fines or potential jail time for the minors involved.
Florence City Manager Scotty Davis has emphasized the importance of parental responsibility in managing their children’s activities and whereabouts, particularly during curfew hours. Additionally, Police Captain Stephen Starling noted that the shooting incident has prompted the city to consider strengthening the curfew laws and increasing penalties for parents who do not adhere to the curfew guidelines.
During the recent shooting, the suspect allegedly fired at several vehicles and buildings, although no injuries were reported. The 15-year-old now faces multiple charges including unlawful carry of a weapon, shooting into a dwelling, and malicious injury to personal property. Police have obtained video evidence of the incident, which will likely contribute to the ongoing investigation.
City leaders are taking a proactive approach due to a recent increase in youth-related crime. Mayor Lethonia Barnes expressed support for holding parents accountable for their children’s actions and whereabouts, aligning with community sentiments that support stricter enforcement of the juvenile curfew to curb youth violence.
Residents of Florence have shown support for the enforcement of the curfew. Many believe that a firmer approach could help mitigate the rising incidents of youth crime in the community. The city is determined to promote safety and ensure that the juvenile curfew policy is upheld to protect young residents.
Summary of the Juvenile Curfew Policy
- Curfew Hours: Midnight to 6 a.m.
- Age Restrictions: Under 17 must be accompanied by an adult; 16 and younger are prohibited in public unsupervised.
- Consequences for Violation: Possible fines or jail time for minors; potential penalties for non-compliant parents.
Possible Implications of Recent Shooting
- Ongoing Investigation: Police have video evidence and are pursuing multiple charges against the suspect.
- Community Response: Residents and city leaders are advocating for stricter curfew enforcement in light of increasing youth crime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the juvenile curfew policy in Florence, S.C.?
The juvenile curfew policy mandates that anyone under 17 must be accompanied by an adult from midnight to 6 a.m., and those 16 years and younger cannot be in public unsupervised during these hours.
What are the consequences for violating the curfew?
Minors who violate the curfew may face fines or potential jail time. Parents or guardians can also be penalized if they do not ensure their children abide by these rules.
Why is the city considering tightening the curfew laws?
The city is considering tightening the curfew laws due to a rise in youth crime and incidents such as the recent shooting involving a minor.
Key Features Summary Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Curfew Hours | Midnight to 6 a.m. |
| Age Restrictions | Under 17 must be accompanied by an adult; 16 and younger are prohibited in public unsupervised. |
| Consequences | Punishments for minors violating the curfew; potential penalties for parents. |
| Recent Incident | Shooting involving a 15-year-old resulting in multiple charges and community concern. |
| Community Response | Support for enforcement of curfew laws amid rising youth crime rates. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florence Implements Stricter Youth Curfew and Mall Policies
Florence Leaders Review Youth Curfew After Shooting Incident
Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Wikipedia: Curfew
- WMBF News
- Google Search: juvenile curfew
- WFXB News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law
- WPDE News – Curfew Reminder
- Google News: Florence curfew
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
