Popular Tourist Destination Might Make Controversial New Order Permanent
Myrtle Beach, a popular tourist destination in the state of South Carolina, recently imposed a curfew that could become permanent.
According to Adam Benson of WBTW, the curfew forbids juveniles under the age of 18 from being outside in the downtown area of Myrtle Beach from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
The decision comes on the heels of a slew of juvenile arrests in the area since March 13. There have been 137 in total, with 57 of those being the result of "physical violence, drugs and/or weapons," according to the official order.
The curfew, which was initially extended through Monday, July 7, might become permanent if the ordinance is approved twice. One of those votes will be held on Tuesday, July 8.
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“We do not want this to define who we are; we will not let it define who we are. We have a great community,” Mayor Brenda Bethune said of the violence. "[There are] so many positive things to do and see here, and we’re not going to let a few bad apples spoil it.”
According to WMBF's Maddie Sexton, the new curfew has been met with mixed reactions from tourists. Some understand the obvious goal of the curfew, while others worry it could limit their fun while on vacation.
Police noted that no violations have occurred since the new curfew was put in place.