The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has reported multiple violations during the first night of its newly implemented juvenile curfew in Washington, D.C. The curfew, which applies to individuals under the age of 18, is set to be enforced nightly until November 5, 2025.
Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith has established four designated Special Juvenile Curfew Zones: Navy Yard, the U Street Corridor, areas surrounding Union Station, and the Banneker Recreation Center. Signage indicating the curfew was posted around these zones, which began enforcement at 11 p.m.
On the evening of the curfew’s initiation, officers from the Third District encountered a group of juveniles at approximately 10:40 p.m. at the intersection of 14th and U Street, Northwest. A total of fourteen teens were cited for violating the curfew. Following this, around 12:24 a.m., First District officers apprehended two more juveniles in the 1100 block of New Jersey Avenue, Southeast. A further encounter took place at 2:51 a.m., again involving two juveniles, this time at 9th and U Street, Northwest.
The Special Juvenile Curfew Zones are active nightly from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., while the citywide juvenile curfew remains in effect from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.. According to Mayor’s Order 2025-115, minors are prohibited from being in public areas or on the premises of any business within the District during these hours, except for specific exempted activities.
The motivation behind these curfews is to enhance safety within the city and to address concerns related to juvenile crime and public safety. The MPD aims to engage with the community to ensure that young individuals are aware of the new regulations and understand the importance of adhering to them.
As the enforcement continues, the MPD is expected to maintain a visible presence in the designated zones to monitor compliance and provide support. Community engagement and education are crucial components of the curfew’s implementation, as officials seek to balance safety with the rights of young individuals.
This initiative reflects ongoing efforts by city officials to address youth-related issues while fostering a safer environment for all residents. As the program progresses, further reports on its effectiveness and community response will be essential in shaping future policies.
