Chester Extends State of Emergency by 30 Days

Officials say the curfew has stopped violent crimes

Lawmakers in violence-plagued Chester have agreed to extend a state of emergency for an additional 30 days.

Mayor Wendell Butler, Jr. declared the original emergency last Saturday after four people were shot and killed over an eight-day period.

The current emergency declaration was set to expire Wednesday, the mayor and City Council voted 5-0 to extend it by a month after they saw a drop in crime.

Under the declaration, people in five high-crime city neighborhoods aren't allowed on the street from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m. without a legitimate reason, and no gathering of three or more people is allowed in those areas without a permit.

Police officers are also working shifts of 12 hours or more.

Several residents at the meeting voiced concerns that the restrictions were unfairly hampering their ability to leave their homes at night.

Modifications will be made to allow for adults and teens who work past 9 p.m. to be out after curfew, and lawmakers promised to discuss the declaration with police and address any serious concerns.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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