Youth Diversion

‘Teen takeovers’ have become a nuisance in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, with large groups of teenagers gathering in public spaces, causing disruption and sometimes engaging in destructive behavior. CMPD now recommends a 9 p.m. curfew for all minors. We look at how that curfew would be enforced, what is contributing to the gatherings, and possible solutions for providing safe spaces for minors.

How can Charlotte reduce teen crime? The Charlotte City Council is wrestling with that question amid a spike in juvenile arrests since 2020. Advocates say guns and social media may play a part, and compassionate adult mentors might be the antidote.

Many kids in Mecklenburg County who get in trouble, say at school or the mall, end up speaking with Cara Evans-Patterson. She’s in charge of CMPD’s youth…