By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com
The Prince George’s County Council recently passed a resolution allowing local business owners to chime in on the enforcement of juvenile curfew zones.
The council’s resolution authorizes the chief of police to enforce and create curfew zones for juveniles under 17 when requested by commercial property owners in Prince George’s County. The bill took effect immediately.
“The resolution we passed today will fill the gap as the Juvenile Curfew Bill becomes law,” said Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D-District 5) in a statement on April 30. “Our county executive put an executive order in place specific to National Harbor, but we want to allow other commercial property owners in the county to apply for a curfew zone if they feel it’s needed.”
Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks’ executive order prohibits unaccompanied minors 16 and under from the National Harbor between 5 p.m. and 6 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The curfew went into effect on April 26.
“The safety and well-being of our residents, visitors and businesses at National Harbor are of the utmost importance,” said Alsobrooks in a statement. “The implementation of a juvenile curfew is a necessary step to address the recent incidents of unruly behavior and ensure public safety. We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to preserve the vibrancy and security of National Harbor.”
Eligible business owners must meet particular criteria before submitting an application for a curfew zone, which includes a letter of support from the county council member of that area.
“Our biggest priority is making sure we’re in partnership with the business community, law enforcement and the residents of our county who have all been strong supporters of these measures,” said Ivey.
With the Juvenile Curfew Bill the council aims to enforce more aggressive measures within the juvenile curfew zones in order to handle youth violence.
The bill is expected to be voted on at the end of May.
Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.
