2:00pm | Long Beach high school graduation ceremonies take place this week and the Long Beach Police Department is reminding graduates and parents about the dangers of underage drinking.
According to the LBPD: Underage drinkers are more likely to involve themselves in unsafe behavior, or become a victim of a crime due to vulnerability. The affects of alcohol impairs judgment, affects physical coordination, and may prevent one from maintaining control of their body.
It may also cause an individual to ignore their morals and values, resulting in poor decision making such as driving under the influence. These factors can also lead to minors being more susceptible to being victimized because they may be considered an easy target.
Curfew
With summer vacation beginning soon, police would also like to remind young adults and parents that the City’s curfew law will be strictly enforced. Section 9.58.010 of the Long Beach Municipal Code states: “It is unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years to remain in or upon any ‘public place’ as defined in Section 9.02.090, between the hours of 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. the following day.”
LBPD experience has shown us that children who are on the street after curfew are more likely to become victims of violent crime, and also are more likely to become involved in criminal behavior.
Parents are reminded that it is important to know where your children are at all times, and to ensure they get home safely before curfew. Additionally, the hours of the Youth Services Section have been adjusted to accommodate any enforcement action.
Alternatives
The City of Long Beach is offering a variety of summer programs, activities and classes for youth of all ages through the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine, and in partnership with the Long Beach Convention & Visitor Bureau. Concerts and movies in the park are fan favorites and something a family can do together.
To learn more about these programs, visit www.lbparks.org and www.100daysofsummer.org, call (562) 570-3100 or e-mail [email protected].
For youth employment opportunities through the City of Long Beach’s “Hire-A-Youth Program, visit the Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network website at www.HireAYouth.com.
Disclosure: lbpost.com publisher Shaun Lumachi is Chair of the Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network Board of Directors.