Virginia Beach City Council on Thursday enacted a temporary curfew for unaccompanied minors, beginning at 7 p.m. On weekend nights and lasting through the end of April.
Recent Curfew Measures
The “imminent threat” curfew passed unanimously, two days after City Manager Patrick Duhaney and Police Chief Paul Neudigate recommended it as a response to unruly crowds. The curfew applies specifically to the area between Rudee Park and 31st Street, between Pacific Avenue and the ocean, from 7 p.m. To 5 a.m. On weekend nights through April 30.
This new curfew is in addition to a previously approved change to the citywide curfew, which moves its start time to 10 p.m. Beginning March 19. Both curfews aim to address violence and large gatherings of young people at the Oceanfront.
Enforcement and Exemptions
Police Chief Neudigate stated that police will collaborate with city communications personnel and schools to inform the public about the emergency curfew and its objectives. He also noted that enforcement will be “empathetic” and that the curfew area is “very clearly defined.” Exemptions to the curfew include travel for emergencies, employment, and participation in constitutionally protected activities with parental permission.
Police have consistently faced challenges with crowds in the resort area, particularly with unpermitted gatherings often promoted through social media. These events typically occur in March and April.
Last weekend, a shooting on Atlantic Avenue wounded six young adults despite a significant police presence. On that same night, 37 teens were taken into custody for violating the existing citywide curfew, with two found to be illegally carrying weapons.
Councilmember Jennifer Rouse explained that the weekend curfew specifically addresses the issue of crowds and the risk they pose, stating, “When you have a crowd of young people and then you’ve got someone shooting a gun, that puts a lot of people at risk.”
The ordinance states that large crowds of juveniles have historically been linked to civil commotions and violent crime. It also notes that unaccompanied minors are both contributors to and potential victims of these public safety concerns.
Councilmember Cash Jackson-Green indicated the council’s comfort with the curfew stemmed from the police department’s focus on “coaching” crowds rather than immediate arrests, though enforcement powers are available if needed.
Violating the imminent threat curfew could result in a Class 1 misdemeanor charge, while violations of the citywide curfew could lead to a warning or a Class 4 misdemeanor charge, depending on the circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area does the new weekend curfew cover?
The curfew applies to the area between Rudee Park and 31st Street, between Pacific Avenue and the ocean.
When does the new weekend curfew take effect?
The curfew begins at 7 p.m. On weekend nights and lasts through April 30.
What are some exceptions to the curfew?
Exceptions include travel for emergencies, lawful employment, and attendance at specified events with parental permission.
As Virginia Beach prepares for the spring season, will these new curfew measures effectively address concerns about unruly crowds and ensure public safety?
