NewsWest 9
HOBBS - Police in Hobbs are hitting the streets trying to cut down on crime. This week, however, city officals passed a new law which may make their jobs a little bit easier. A new city ordinance penalizes parents for their child's crime.
Specifically, Hobbs police have been trying to stop a number of smaller crimes committed by juveniles. These delinquent acts can range from graffiti to small thefts.
The new city ordinance, however, really turns up the pressure on parents. A parent could face fines or even jail time if their child continues to commit crime. Hobbs police told NewsWest 9 the new law should be a big help.
"One of the problems is juveniles that are out late at night. If they are out committing deliquent acts late at night, we can hold their parents responsible, it would help us lower our crime rate here in Hobbs," Officer Michael Stone, with the Hobbs Police Department, said.
The ordinance reads for the first conviction, a parent will get a warning. Second means a $100 fine. Third means a $500 fine, and another $500 fine, and up to 30 days in jail for every conviction after that.
