Lorain, Ohio — The City of Lorain is considering a new ordinance that would allow parents to face criminal charges if their child is caught breaking the law.
City Councilman at Large Tony Dimacchia presented the proposal at the most recent council meeting. He stated that the goal is to hold parents and legal guardians accountable when juveniles commit crimes.
If passed, the ordinance would allow parents to be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Dimacchia emphasized that the goal is not simply to lock people up, but to demand accountability.
Lorain is not the first city to consider this type of legislation. Earlier this year, Euclid passed a similar legislation.
The ordinance is still being finalized in committee and could be presented to the Lorain City Council for a vote as early as October.
Dimacchia stated that the measure also aims to assist local law enforcement.
