INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett announced he does not plan to extend a curfew order in Marion County on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, but that will likely change this weekend.
Hogsett announced Wednesday the curfew order that has been in place since Sunday night will likely be reinstated for Friday and Saturday nights when larger crowds are expected at planned weekend gatherings.
“After a difficult weekend, Indianapolis has experienced three days of peaceful protest that has powerfully contributed to a national conversation on our criminal justice system," Hogsett said in a statement. "To the men and women of IMPD: thank you for protecting first amendment rights, under difficult conditions, as our community wrestles with necessary change. And to those who have chosen the path of nonviolent protest — we see you, we hear you, and we will work with you over the coming days, weeks, and months."
Following violent demonstrations last weekend in Downtown Indianapolis, curfews were in effect Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights.
"For the safety of what we believe will be much larger demonstrations this weekend, and given the violence and property damage we experienced this past weekend, we intend to reinstate the curfew order for Friday and Saturday," Hogsett said. "I do not make this decision lightly, but it is my belief it will better allow our city to preserve this promising peace.”
Hogsett announced in an executive order on Sunday that anyone found in violation of the curfew could face up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $10,000. However, peaceful protests continued after the curfew deadlines on both Monday and Tuesday nights.
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