Indianapolis Spring Break Safety Plan: Curfew Enforcement and Latest ‘Connection Center’

As Indianapolis schools prepare for spring break and the finish of the 2025-26 school year, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) is increasing enforcement of youth curfews and launching a “Connection Center” to provide support and resources for young people found out after hours. The initiative aims to address rising youth violence and provide early intervention for at-risk individuals.

Curfew Regulations

Indiana law sets specific curfew hours for minors. Children under 15 are prohibited from being in public places between 11 p.m. And 5 a.m. Daily. For those aged 15 to 17, the curfew is from 1 a.m. To 5 a.m. On Saturdays and Sundays, and from 11 p.m. To 5 a.m. On weekdays.

Exceptions to the curfew include being accompanied by a parent or guardian, participation in school, religious, or first amendment activities, or being engaged in operate.

The Connection Center

IMPD, in partnership with the Office of Public Health and Safety and community groups, will operate a Connection Center to provide support services to youth found violating curfew. The center, which will be located downtown, though the exact location is not being disclosed, will offer free food and drinks, as well as connections to community resources.

According to IMPD Chief Tanya Terry, the goal is not punishment, but protection. “The goal is to intervene early and provide support before that young person becomes involved in something far more serious,” Terry said.

Parents or guardians will be contacted to pick up teens and discuss available resources. Youth who cannot be released to an adult will be taken to the juvenile detention center, but this will not be considered an arrest and will not result in a criminal record.

Addressing Youth Violence

City officials have been refining their juvenile public safety plans for the past two years in response to a rise in youth homicides and shootings. The Connection Center is intended to provide a safe space and resources for youth who may be facing demanding circumstances.

Community partners, including Voices, Inner Beauty, Children’s Policy & Law Initiative of Indiana, Let Them Talk, and Shepherd Community Center, are collaborating on the initiative.

“For many youth, moments like this can become turning points when we meet them with resources, caring adults and opportunities,” said Heather Savage from Let Them Talk.

Recent Incidents

The safety plan comes after several recent incidents involving youth. On March 6, a party with over 100 juveniles resulted in the arrest of two men, and police reported finding alcohol and marijuana. On March 9, a 16-year-old boy was shot at an apartment complex after a disturbance.