Antigua and Barbuda officials will maintain evening restrictions for young people throughout the annual Carnival festival. Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin announced this decision after consulting with Acting Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers and senior law enforcement leaders. Police officers strongly recommended against suspending the rules due to recent criminal activity involving teenagers. Cabinet members also discussed the matter during their meeting on Wednesday. Young people under 18 must stay with adults between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. during the celebrations.
Parents face financial penalties when their children violate these restrictions. First-time offenses carry fines of EC$2,000 while repeat violations can reach EC$5,000. Community service or jail time may replace monetary punishments for serious cases. Recent violence highlights the government's concerns about youth safety. A 16-year-old gang member died from gunshot wounds this week despite receiving state assistance and job training opportunities.
Parents face financial penalties when their children violate these restrictions. First-time offenses carry fines of EC$2,000 while repeat violations can reach EC$5,000. Community service or jail time may replace monetary punishments for serious cases. Recent violence highlights the government's concerns about youth safety. A 16-year-old gang member died from gunshot wounds this week despite receiving state assistance and job training opportunities.
