The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) reported 18 violations of its newly implemented juvenile curfew on the first night of enforcement, which began on November 5, 2025. This citywide curfew applies to individuals under 18, prohibiting them from being in public spaces or establishments between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith designated four specific areas as Special Juvenile Curfew Zones: Navy Yard, the U Street Corridor, around Union Station, and the Banneker Recreation Center. Signage indicating the curfew was placed around the perimeter of each zone to inform the public. Officers engaged directly with juveniles to explain the curfew requirements, which took effect at 11 p.m.
On the night of enforcement, officers from the Third District encountered a group of 14 teenagers at approximately 22:40 in the U Street Corridor. All 14 received curfew violations. Shortly after, at around 00:24, officers from the First District stopped two additional juveniles in the 1100 block of New Jersey Avenue, Southeast, for violating the curfew. Later, at 02:51, Third District officers found two more juveniles in violation at the intersection of 9th and U Street, Northwest.
The curfew is set to remain in effect nightly from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. for these designated zones, while the citywide curfew will continue from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. through November 5, 2025. According to Mayor’s Order 2025-115, this enforcement aims to enhance public safety and reduce juvenile crime in the District of Columbia.
Exemptions to this curfew include specific activities, such as participation in school events or emergencies, allowing some flexibility for young individuals. The MPD emphasized that the primary goal is to ensure the safety of minors while balancing community needs.
As the enforcement period continues, the MPD will monitor compliance and adjust its approach as necessary. With the curfew now in place, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any violations to help maintain a safer environment for all.