DC slaps curfew on teens as Navy Yard chaos sparks emergency order
Washington, DC — A surge in late-night youth gatherings and disorderly incidents has prompted city leaders to reinstate a juvenile curfew across the District under a new emergency order.
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that all individuals under the age of 18 must now be off the streets by 11 p.m. nightly, beginning April 16, as part of a 15-day emergency measure aimed at reducing disruptions and preventing violence.
The move follows weeks of large gatherings of young people, particularly in the Navy Yard area, where officials said activity has escalated into unsafe situations.
Under the order, the Metropolitan Police Department’s interim chief is also authorized to establish targeted curfew zones. In those zones, groups of nine or more minors are prohibited from gathering starting at 8 p.m. if public safety concerns are identified.
City officials said the curfew follows previous enforcement efforts that showed reductions in fights, vandalism, and other disturbances. Earlier emergency legislation expanding curfew rules expired just days before the new order was issued.
Police said they will maintain an increased presence in areas known for large gatherings, especially through the weekend.
The curfew includes standard exceptions under existing law and will remain in effect unless extended or modified by city officials.
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Key Points
- DC reinstates 11 p.m. curfew for anyone under 18
- Police can create targeted zones banning teen gatherings after 8 p.m.
- Order follows weeks of large youth gatherings in Navy Yard