LARGO, MD –   At a press event Thursday morning with National Harbor residents, businesses, and County Council leadership, Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced an Executive Order implementing a juvenile curfew at National Harbor effective 5:00 PM on Friday, April 26, 2024. It will require that persons 16 years old and younger without supervision be off the property between 5:00 PM and 6:00 AM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.  

"The safety and well-being of our residents, visitors, and businesses at National Harbor are of the utmost importance," said Alsobrooks. "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." 

The curfew comes after months of engagement and collaboration with the Peterson Companies, National Harbor’s Management Company, and by both Administration leadership and Prince George’s Police to better understand and respond to public safety concerns at the Harbor. These discussions resulted in new legislation for a youth curfew currently under consideration by the County Council.  

"We thank the County Executive for putting this emergency measure in place as the Council’s curfew bill proceeds through the legislative process. That legislation is not specific to National Harbor and will cover commercial areas in the county where a curfew is needed and approved by the Police Chief," said Council Chair Jolene Ivey (District 5). "We want to make sure we’re in partnership with the business community, with law enforcement, and the residents of our county who have all been strong supporters of these measures." 

In addition, an enhanced safety plan is under development by the Prince George’s County Police Department. It will include enhanced collaboration with local businesses, residents, and utilizing community engagement officers to inform and educate the juvenile visitors.

"I know the department will work closely with the County Executive, parents, guardians, children, and the media to keep everyone informed," said Police Chief Malik Aziz.

The Alsobrooks Administration also met with National Harbor businesses this week to provide a forum for open conversation about the current climate. Administration officials distributed business safety tips, which included information for complying with the juvenile curfew. The Alsobrooks Administration has implemented successful juvenile curfews in the past, enacting one during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and again in 2022. The 2022 curfew coincided with a substantial improvement in crime numbers. Compared to curfew hours over the 30-day period immediately before the curfew began, homicides went down 71 percent during the curfew. 

In addition to enforcement measures, Prince George’s County remains committed to providing constructive outlets for young people. The Summer Youth Enrichment Program, the Alsobrooks Summer Passport Experience, and the Alsobrooks Youth Leadership Institute offer educational and training opportunities for young people. 

While the County takes proactive steps to address youth violence, parental involvement is essential in fostering a safe and supportive environment for young people. Parents are urged to actively engage with their children and refrain from leaving them unsupervised at National Harbor. 

Learn more about the National Harbor Juvenile Curfew at mypgc.us/NationalHarborCurfew.  
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Prince George’s County, Maryland

A mere glance at the diversity of Prince George's County confirms our role as a cultural and economic leader of tomorrow. Located in the heart of the Baltimore/Washington corridor, the County borders Washington D.C. and is just 37 miles south of the City of Baltimore. Encompassing almost 500 square miles, Prince George's County has an urban atmosphere that also provides a scenic and peaceful place to live, work, and play.

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For More Information:

Allyson Wilson
Communications Director
Office of the County Executive
Prince George’s County
c. 202-744-3308
AFWilson@co.pg.md.us