CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Juvenile Priority Offender Strategy team is conducting outreach to teens and parents in Uptown.
This effort aims to maintain peace and prevent potential disturbances, following a gathering of approximately 200 teens at Romare Bearden Park two weeks ago.
The specialized CMPD unit is focusing on youths who have previously gotten into trouble, knocking on doors to engage with them and their guardians.
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This proactive approach comes as businesses in areas like the French Quarter anticipate a busy weekend.
Lauren Bjurman, a local neighbor, described the scene at Romare Bearden Park two weeks ago.
“It was basically like a mob of 200 high schoolers just kind of coming at us; no one seemed violent, though,” Bjurman said.
The JPOST team contacts parents and juveniles to discuss available resources and remind them of the city’s curfew regulations.
CMPD Officer Emme Bellemy explained the unit’s process, stating, “We make contact with parents and juveniles; we talk to them.”
Bellemy emphasized that the unit’s actions are not intended as a scare tactic.
“Not so much as a scare tactic, just educating them more on the risks that are associated with getting involved with criminal activities,” Bellemy said.
The team aims to deter youths from further involvement in criminal activities.
Daz Sauls, co-owner of Sip Happens in the French Quarter, noted the importance of the current week for local businesses.
“Well were hoping for a lot of business; of course this week is huge,” Sauls said.
Sauls added that while youths can be a problem, he has observed improvements since the last large gathering.
“I actually have noticed a difference; we haven’t been here that long, but when I first got here there were a lot of younger kids,” Sauls said.
Bjurman expressed concern about recent events, saying, “I would say yes, I’m worried about it. I have heard the chatter; people are worried about something happening. I’m not changing my plans; I plan on being here to watch the fireworks at Truist.”
The city’s curfew requires children ages 13 and under to be home by 10 p.m. Youths ages 13 to 15 must be home by 11 p.m., unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The CMPD JPOST unit will continue its efforts to ensure a peaceful atmosphere through the weekend. Residents and visitors are expected to gather for fireworks at Truist.