LAW ON CHILDREN LOITERING ON STREETS TO BE STRICTLY ENFORCED

Basseterre, St. Kitts, August 26, 2024 (SKNIS): The Royal Saint Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) is reiterating the importance of the law concerning children loitering on the streets, particularly after 10 p.m. The law, which is intended to ensure the safety and well-being of minors under the age of sixteen, will be strictly enforced to maintain public order and protect the youth.

Under Section 15 of the Juvenile Act of Saint Christopher and Nevis , any boy or girl under the age of sixteen found wandering or loitering on the streets after 10 p.m. without a legitimate reason will be subject to police intervention. Officers are authorised to stop such individuals and, if necessary, escort them to the nearest police station. There, they will be held until released into the custody of their parents or legal guardians.

The RSCNPF emphasises that this measure is in place to protect minors from potential dangers that may arise from unsupervised activities during late hours. The law mandates that the parents or guardians of the minor must be immediately notified upon their child’s detention.

Parents and guardians are urged to be vigilant in their responsibilities. Failure to supervise minors effectively may result in penalties. Specifically, any parent or guardian who neglects this duty may face a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500). However, no charges will be filed without a prior caution, warning of the consequences of persistent neglect of parental duties.

In light of these provisions, the RSCNPF encourages all members of the community to adhere to these regulations to ensure the safety of our young people and uphold the standards of our society.

The law defines “street” broadly to include any public thoroughfare, including bridges, roads, lanes, footways, squares, courts, alleys, or passages, as well as any adjoining grounds that are open to the public.

The RSCNPF remains committed to safeguarding the community and ensuring that all laws are upheld for the protection of its citizens, particularly the youth. The cooperation of all parents, guardians, and community members is essential in this effort.

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