Arizona's Statewide Curfew Allowed To Expire

PHOENIX, AZ — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey Monday announced he's allowing the state's curfew to expire after eight days of restrictions.

The curfew was enacted May 31 after some protests in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson turned violent.

In his proclamation, Ducey noted most of the state's protest had remained peaceful, but some people "have engaged in riots resulting in assaults, vandalism, violence and criminal damage."

On Monday, as the curfew expired, Ducey took to Twitter to thank peaceful protestors and the state's law enforcement officers for cooperating with the curfew.

"Arizona has avoided much of the violence we’ve seen in other states and large metro areas," Ducey wrote. "I’m also thankful to all Arizonans for their patience during this time. Our state and nation are facing multiple challenges, and I’m very appreciative for how the citizens and leaders of our state are conducting themselves during this historic moment."

In his proclamation, Ducey noted the state is obligated to allow residents to assemble and express themselves. While peaceful protesting is protected by the First Amendment, authorities can restrict the time, place and manner in which free speech is practiced for reasons like public safety, one goal of Ducey's curfew.

"For the past 8 days, we’ve seen Arizonans exercise their Constitutional Rights in a peaceful manner," Ducey wrote. "With this approach, Arizona can continue to be a good example of how First Amendment rights and public safety will be prioritized."