COLONIE — Out of an “abundance of caution” the town extended the 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew from today through Sunday June 7.
Residents can travel to and from work, and essential businesses can remain open. But, the local civil emergency declared by Supervisor Paula Mahan does not allow customers in those businesses.
“Due to safety concerns and risks, business owners are strongly encouraged to secure their place of business and stay in a safe place,” reads the order. “Do not take matters into your own hands such as patrolling your business to prevent damage or looting.”
Residents are urged to stay home and off the streets. No unnecessary travel is
permitted and no person should be in a public place other than emergency personnel and those required to perform essential services.
On Saturday night through Sunday morning, rioters caused $1 million of damage to county owned buildings and many businesses in downtown Albany. The riot followed a peaceful protest of “Black Lives Matter” calling on reform in the wake of George Floyd’s death at the hands of police in Minneapolis. Rioters and police also squared off on Monday and while rocks and fireworks were launched at police, who responded with tear gas, there was no sustainable damage done and nothing was looted.
“The supervisor and chief of police ask all residents and visitors to voluntary abide by the curfew, and violations resulting in public safety threats including fires, extensive property damage and violence will be prosecuted,” reads the order signed by Mahan.
