HARTFORD — Officials in Hartford are blocking a dozen businesses from staying open all night to reduce crime.

Hartford public officials have rejected 12 out of 19 requests for businesses to stay open all night, including three Sam's Food stores, several gas stations and food markets.

Since July 1, convenience stores, some previously open 24 hours, are not permitted to be open between 11:30 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Mayor Luke Bronin tells The Hartford Courant the decision was made for the "sake of public safety." Police are saying the businesses are not to blame, but officers are often called to locations at night for reports of illegal acts, including shootings.

The stores are required to re-apply annually for licenses to stay open late. Police have received 224 calls about one gas station in 18 months.

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Information from: Hartford Courant, http://www.courant.com