Iowa City issues first curfew citation

The curfew ordinance that drew heavy debates from city council members and residents has landed its first offender.

16-year-old Shatani D. Buck Jr., of Iowa City, was issued a curfew citation after being at Firewater bar, 347 S. Gilbert St., Thursday at 1:15 a.m., according to the Iowa City Police Department's arrest blotter.

Sgt. Denise Brotherton said a patrol officer was at the bar dealing with an unrelated matter when the officer saw a subject recognized as being a juvenile. Buck was cited for the violation – which carries a $50 fine plus court costs – and released to a relative, she said.

The city ordinance that went into effect Dec. 23 states that curfew hours for 16- and-17-year-olds is midnight to 5 a.m. There are few exceptions, such as being with parents or a guardian, traveling from work, or religious, school, or political activities. Brotherton said the department had only planned on issuing warnings until March 1, but said they reserved the right to issue a citation earlier if necessary.

The ordinance was first discussed by the council in September 2009, but it took many months before passing with a 4-3 vote.

Buck was also charged with underage possession of tobacco and presence in a bar after 10 p.m., according to the arrest blotter.