A new ordinance in Flint is aimed at preventing violence and crime by putting an end to loitering.

According to a news release from the city, the new ordinance gives Flint Police authority to take action on behalf of businesses in matters of loitering and trespassing. Police will now be able to take action against individuals or groups who are trespassing or causing a nuisance without any direct action from the property owner. Previously the property owners needed to be present in order to make the complaint against the offenders. Flint Police Chief James Tolbert said "this new action allows police to take action quickly as issues arise."

The ordinance will go into effect in November. Businesses who sign up will also be given a sticker to display in their window indicating their participation to patrons.

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