WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tensions are running high in the Navy Yard neighborhood following another chaotic weekend marked by large groups of teenagers gathering, leading to physical assaults, robberies, and widespread fear among residents. During a highly emotional community meeting held Tuesday evening, residents and Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners (ANCs) voiced frustration over the escalating incidents and called for urgent and immediate solutions — including stricter curfews and increased parental accountability.
Weekend Chaos Sparks Calls for Change
The latest unrest unfolded over the weekend when hundreds of teens reportedly gathered in the Southeast D.C. area. Tensions quickly boiled over into violence, with at least two adults reportedly assaulted and multiple fights erupting throughout the neighborhood. Residents say the event was not an isolated occurrence, but part of a growing pattern of weekend disruptions that has many fearing for their safety.
“It’s frightening, it’s appalling,” said Carolette Sweatt, a longtime Navy Yard resident who attended the meeting. “A curfew is a mandate, but it could work — in addition to other programs targeting the families of these youth. There’s a way D.C. can implement and enforce parenting.”
Curfew Enforcement Under Scrutiny
While D.C. already has a citywide youth curfew on the books, many residents and community leaders argue that the current regulations are outdated or poorly enforced. Under current law, children under 17 are prohibited from being in public spaces between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekends during the school year. The curfew applies daily during the summer.
Several ANC commissioners and attendees called for the curfew to be revised to start earlier, possibly around 9 or 10 p.m., particularly in known hot spots like Navy Yard.
“I’m angry. I’m very upset that my residents do not feel safe. We have seniors in our community,” said ANC Commissioner Markita Bryant, who has been one of the most vocal proponents of enacting stronger curfew policies. “I recommend, number one, a curfew for Navy Yard.”
Community Divided on Accountability
While many residents expressed support for stricter measures, others emphasized the need to address underlying issues, such as economic disparity, youth services, and parental engagement.
“I’m not mad at the children,” Sweatt added. “I’m mad at the conditions that forced the children to feel like this is what they need to do.”
ANC Commissioner Edward Daniels took a harder stance, criticizing what he sees as community complacency and a tendency to rationalize disruptive behavior.
“It leaves me completely exhausted with those in our community who continue to make excuses for the behavior of these kids,” Daniels said.
The debate reflects a broader divide in how best to respond to youth violence — with some urging more enforcement and accountability, and others advocating for deeper community intervention and systemic change.
Community Advocates Call for Unity
Ardinay Blocker, a representative from the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, called for a more cooperative approach to resolving the crisis.
“In order for us to come to a solution with all of this stuff, we all have to be on one page and think as a team,” Blocker said. “We can’t just look at it as, ‘I want him arrested, I want the police more involved.’”
She emphasized that simply relying on punitive measures won’t solve the deeper social and emotional issues facing many of the teens involved.
What’s Next: Meetings with City Leaders
In response to the public outcry, ANC commissioners revealed they are already in talks with city leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office. A meeting is scheduled with D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith and D.C. Council members to explore legislative adjustments and strategic interventions.
Residents hope those meetings will result in real, tangible steps — not just rhetoric.
“There’s a disconnect between the community, city leadership, and what’s happening on the ground,” one resident commented after the meeting. “We don’t want platitudes. We want action — and we want it now.”
A Community at a Crossroads
As summer approaches and school lets out, many residents worry that the issues will only intensify without immediate intervention. While the debate continues over curfews, policing, and accountability, one thing is clear: Navy Yard residents are no longer willing to stay silent.
Whether through revised legislation, community engagement programs, or increased law enforcement, the neighborhood is demanding solutions — and fast.
“This isn’t just about one weekend,” said Commissioner Bryant. “This is about reclaiming our community — for our seniors, our families, and even for the kids who’ve lost their way. It’s time for D.C. to step up.”
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