The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) reported a total of 18 violations during the first night of a new juvenile curfew, which restricts individuals under 18 from being in public areas after 11 p.m. The curfew, enacted in designated zones, will remain in effect nightly until November 5, 2025.
Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith identified four Special Juvenile Curfew Zones: Navy Yard, the U Street Corridor, around Union Station, and the Banneker Recreation Center. Officers positioned signage around these areas to inform the public, particularly juveniles, about the curfew enforcement that began at 11 p.m.
On the first night of enforcement, Third District officers encountered a group of juveniles around 10:40 p.m. at the intersection of 14th and U Street, Northwest. Fourteen teenagers were issued curfew violations. In a separate incident, First District officers detained two juveniles at approximately 12:24 a.m. in the 1100 block of New Jersey Avenue, Southeast, for the same offense. Later, around 2:51 a.m., officers from the Third District found two additional violators at 9th and U Street, Northwest.
The Special Juvenile Curfew Zones will be operational from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. each evening, while the broader citywide curfew applies from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. According to Mayor’s Order 2025-115, this curfew restricts individuals under 18 from being in public spaces or on the premises of any establishment within the District of Columbia, unless they are participating in exempted activities.
The enforcement of this curfew aims to enhance safety in the designated areas and reduce juvenile crime, as officials continue to assess its impact on the community. The MPD encourages parents and guardians to be aware of these regulations and ensure that minors comply to avoid potential penalties.
