Local curfew lifted in response to reduced overnight criminal activity

City of Palo Alto logoThe City of Palo Alto has ended the curfew imposed on June 2 in response to several days of criminal activity seen locally and in the broader Bay Area. City Manager Ed Shikada signed a new order terminating the curfew effective today, June 4 at 5 a.m.

“This is an unprecedented time in our community’s history and imposing a curfew was a significant step to ensure the safety of our community and businesses,” said Shikada. “Thank you to our Palo Alto police officers and regional law enforcement agencies for all of the extraordinary work to keep our community and businesses safe during this challenging time.”

On June 2, the City of Palo Alto imposed a curfew due to several recent incidents in Palo Alto and nearby communities, as well as significant public safety events impacting the broader Bay Area. The curfew had originally been set to formally expire on June 11 and stated it would be terminated earlier or extend as needed, based on circumstances.

The criminal activity seen locally included groups of individuals, not in any way engaged in legitimate First Amendment activity, that resulted in property damage and theft, focused in central retail areas during nighttime hours. Due to the increased police presence locally, planned criminal activity was curtailed. Local police response included support to Menlo Park, East Palo Alto, and San Jose.

“I want to thank the Palo Alto community and the broader regional community for the continued peaceful protests held in Palo Alto. Our City has a long proud history of supporting all kinds of demonstrations and allowing people to legally and safely assemble to express their opinions peacefully and respectfully and we are honored to continue to help do our part,” said Chief Robert Jonsen of the Palo Alto Police Department. “The Palo Alto Police Department will continue to monitor current events and stay vigilant to protect our community and businesses as we do every day.”

Several cities and counties imposed curfews locally including San Mateo County, San Francisco County, Contra Costa County and San Jose, Santa Clara, Danville, Walnut Creek and many more. Some local curfews are being lifted today in response to reduced criminal activity seen regionally and locally.

For the termination of the Curfew Order, go here.

For the original curfew news release and recent public safety details, go here.

For the original curfew frequently asked questions, go here.