Our Great City

Chief Robert Finn

With school officially out for summer, it is time to turn our attention to “Summer Safety and Security”.

Please pay strict attention to the speed limits posted in neighborhoods as there are more children and their parents enjoying outdoor activities this time of year. As our recent citizen survey indicated there is little tolerance for speeding in neighborhoods and officers will be paying close attention to the speed of drivers in residential areas.

Summer also brings parties and the underage use of alcohol. It is illegal for anyone under the age of twenty-one to purchase, attempt to purchase, possess, consume (except in the presence of their parent or legal guardian), become intoxicated or drive under the influence of alcohol. Underage drinkers risk being cited or arrested for this behavior as well as having their driver’s license suspended and educational opportunities damaged. The risk is not worth it.

Criminal mischief offenses tend to increase during the summer months; ranging from toilet papering a house, to graffiti, and even the destruction of property. An act that seems minor, like putting soap in a fountain can cause property damage at a dollar amount that can result in jail time. We have cameras focused on City fountains and will prosecute anyone caught damaging our property. Anyone intentionally or knowingly damaging or destroying another person’s property, which causes financial loss or substantial inconvenience or makes marks, slogans, or initials on another person’s property, has committed criminal mischief.

Parents should discuss these matters with their children; including the ramifications of being involved in criminal mischief or alcohol offenses.

Keep in mind that the curfew is in effect during the summer months and applies to anyone 16 years of age or younger. The curfew is between midnight and 6:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday night and 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Sunday – Thursday.

Finally, if you are traveling this summer we wish you a safe and happy vacation. Please take advantage of our vacation house watch service. This is a free service to residents of the City of Southlake. To learn more or sign up please visit our website 

Let’s all work together to make this the safest summer our community has ever enjoyed. Thanks in advance for your help.