DC police enforce expanded juvenile curfew in Navy Yard

DC police increase enforcement under juvenile curfew

A new juvenile curfew zone took effect over the weekend in the Navy Yard neighborhood, marking the city?s first targeted curfew expansion in response to ongoing safety concerns.

WASHINGTON - A new juvenile curfew zone took effect over the weekend in the Navy Yard neighborhood, marking the city’s first targeted curfew expansion in response to ongoing safety concerns.

The extended curfew, in place July 11–13, supplemented the citywide summer curfew already in effect across the District. FOX 5’s Melanie Alnwick said that authorities reported no arrests or incidents.

However, one curfew violation was reported in the Navy Yard around 11 p.m. Friday, then another around 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the 1200 block of U Street.

Navy Yard enforcement

What we know:

In designated zones, unaccompanied teens aged 17 and under are prohibited from gathering in groups of nine or more after 8 p.m., with exceptions for work, sponsored or First Amendment activities.

READ MORE: DC tightens youth curfew after chaotic weekend

D.C. police say the move follows a string of rowdy incidents, including 23 recent juvenile arrests. Officials said a "teen takeover" in May was part of the reason for both the citywide curfew and the expanded enforcement in Navy Yard.

Youth curfew rules

What's next:

The goal, according to police, is not widespread arrests — but to connect young people and families with city services and positive summer programs. 

Officers maintained a highly visible presence in the area, engaging with teens and informing them of the new rules.

Penalties for curfew violations can include community service and fines up to $500. While the initial emergency legislation proposed a 15-day curfew zone, the Council trimmed it back. Police may request a renewal if needed.