DC Mayor Bowser looks to expand juvenile curfew in effort to curb youth violence
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser seeks to expand juvenile curfew rules
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has introduced emergency legislation to impose stricter juvenile curfews across the District, aiming to curb a surge in youth-related disturbances and violence during the summer months.
WASHINGTON - D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has introduced emergency legislation to impose stricter juvenile curfews across the District, aiming to curb a surge in youth-related disturbances and violence during the summer months.
The proposal, which will go before the D.C. Council on July 1, marks a significant expansion of existing curfew laws and grants new enforcement powers to the Metropolitan Police Department.
Background and Rationale:
The move comes after a series of high-profile incidents involving large groups of teens gathering in public spaces, leading to fights, property destruction, and even assaults on police officers.
Notable disturbances have occurred at The Wharf, Navy Yard, Dupont Circle, and U Street, prompting concern among residents and business owners.
Earlier this summer, Bowser declared a curfew at The Wharf and said it had been successful. Many speculate what enforcement of these curfews would look like, and D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith said they’ve learned a lot from their enforcement efforts at the Wharf.
"We do make the notification of the call, we give folks the opportunity to leave the area, and then we announce that we’re going to clear it at that point if they choose not to. And that’ll be the same protocol," said Smith.
Community Response:
Some residents and business owners welcome the tighter restrictions, citing a need to restore safety and order in neighborhoods affected by youth gatherings.
Others like Cassandra White, the founder of Boxing Not Bullets—an outlet for kids to learn life skills through boxing—argues that curfews address the symptoms rather than the root causes of youth violence, such as lack of recreational opportunities and economic support.
"I do understand the mayor’s concern, and I do understand why she’s doing it. But we need to figure out what better ways we can do this. There has to be other options. And I’m glad we’re here, that my program is still here. But we need more programs like that," said Cassandra White, founder of Boxing Not Bullets.
Next Steps:
The D.C. Council is scheduled to vote on the emergency measure on July 1. If passed, the new curfew rules could take effect immediately, giving law enforcement new tools to address youth violence as summer begins.
Dig deeper:
Here are some of the youth programs in D.C. that still have openings:
- Late Night Hype: DPR’s signature evening events with music, games, pool parties, and water safety, all focused on safe, joyful community time. Visit latenighthype2025.splashthat.com
- We Own the Night Baketball Leagues: These athletic events have empowered youth and young adults for over 30 years through safe, structured games that build fitness, teamwork, and lifelong skills in a supportive community. Visit: https://weownthenight.splashthat.com/
- Youth Tackle Football - Registration opens July 8, 2025 for new season with 60 teams. Visit https://dpryouthtacklefootballleague.splashthat.com
- Junior Lifeguard Academy: Young people ages 13 – 17 start their journey by gaining the skills needed to enter comprehensive lifeguard training. Meets twice a week for four weeks. Visit: https://jrlifeguard.splashthat.com/
- DPR Youth Field Trips: Free Saturday drop-off experiences for ages 7–12, including transportation, lunch, and fun activities. Visit: https://dprfieldtrips.splashthat.com/
- Roving Leaders Movie Nights: Weekly pop-up screenings in parks and community spaces citywide.
- Play in the Park: Activating Bruce Monroe Park & Oxon Run Park weekly in July and August.
- Roving Leaders Day: Annual day of games, moon bounces, biking, live animals, water games, and much more. Visit: https://rovingleadersday25.splashthat.com/