There was a strong reaction from teenagers during a public hearing in the city of Aiken. They're against a proposed curfew that says teens have to be home by 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and midnight, Friday through Sunday.

Those against the proposed Youth Protection Act say it's a violation of people's rights. A few people we spoke to say it goes against what the Constitution is founded on.

"The Constitution says 'We the people,' not 'We the people above the age of 17,'" said teenager Cody Hart.

"It's abridging the privileges of minors to be out at whatever time they want to be. It doesn't matter their reason. All that matters is that, it's their right to do that," teenager Jason Swilter.

But officials with Aiken Public Safety say most of the crimes committed by teens, occur after midnight. They believe the curfew would keep the kids and community safer.

One advocate of the proposed ordinance says she runs a neighborhood pool and has been a victim of vandalism by teens.

"Because of the location of the pool, kids think it's a place they can congregate. They can get into mischief. We've seen it with excessive alcohol consumption and destruction of property," said curfew supporter Ann Willbrand.

Several teens showed up at Tuesday night's meeting. They believe the proposal will cause more harm than good.

"There's going to be more. Everyone will do it. People will rebel against the law. It's fun for teens. That's the way this generation has grown up," said Hart.

"I think they're making a bold statement about people under the age of 17. Because not all 17-year-olds stay out and drink and vandalize things," said teenager Parker Aaron.

The Aiken city council is expected to vote on the proposal on June 9 and 23.