Peoria, IL – The Peoria Police Department is finalizing plans to enforce the city’s new Nuisance Gathering Ordinance, designed to curb violent or unlawful large gatherings while protecting residents’ constitutional rights. The ordinance, approved by the Peoria City Council, takes effect 10 days after publication.
According to the department, the measure gives law enforcement new tools to respond to street takeovers, armed house parties, and repeated neighborhood disturbances that endanger public safety.
Police Chief Eric Echevarria said enforcement will focus strictly on criminal activity, not peaceful expression. “This ordinance will not be used to prevent peaceful protest, peaceful assembly, or any activity protected by the First Amendment,” he said. “Our goal is to stop violence, restore order, and keep families safe.”
To ensure fairness and transparency, the department is developing a detailed internal policy requiring supervisor approval before any enforcement action. Officers will issue dispersal warnings, wear body cameras during enforcement, and undergo training on constitutional protections.
Community outreach sessions are planned to educate residents, event organizers, and business owners about how and when the ordinance applies.
Police officials emphasized that lawful gatherings—such as protests, vigils, and community events—will not be affected. The department is calling on residents and community leaders to help prevent violence and promote safe, lawful gatherings citywide.
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