In an effort to curb nighttime disturbances and juvenile crime, the District of Columbia has launched a bold new initiative: extended curfew zones targeting youth gatherings. Mayor Muriel Bowser, backed by the D.C. Council, is enforcing a stricter policy that aims to prevent large groups of minors from assembling after dark in so-called “hot spot” neighborhoods. The latest measure is a response to a recent uptick in juvenile-related incidents — many believed to be organized via social media — that have disrupted public spaces and put communities on edge.
What Is the New Curfew Policy?
As of this summer, any person under 18 years old in D.C. is prohibited from being in public between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., effective every day through August 31. The rest of the year, the curfew remains the same for weeknights but begins an hour later — midnight — on weekends. This curfew applies to anyone under 17 years old outside of the summer months.
However, a significant change is the introduction of “extended juvenile curfew zones” — areas where the curfew starts even earlier. In these zones, police can restrict gatherings of nine or more minors after 8 p.m., enforcing a four-day temporary ban at a time. Officers must issue two verbal warnings before they can take enforcement actions.
Where Are These Zones Being Used?
The first zone was designated in Navy Yard, following a disturbance involving juveniles over Memorial Day weekend that resulted in six arrests. The idea for these zones is modeled after similar temporary drug-free areas implemented in 2023. Police are authorized to set up multiple zones as needed, provided they give public notice in advance.
These extended curfew areas aim to disperse large youth gatherings before they escalate. Although only one zone has been declared at a time so far, officials believe the power to enforce early dispersals will help contain spontaneous mobs that could result in public disorder or violence.
What Happens if Youth Are Out After Curfew?
If a minor is caught out after curfew without a valid exception, they are typically brought to a D.C. police station or Youth Rehabilitation Services facility until a parent or guardian can retrieve them. While the law allows for up to 25 hours of community service or a $500 fine for the guardian, these penalties are rarely enforced…