Newark implements nightly summer curfew for residents under 18 years old.

Newark has implemented a nightly curfew for individuals under 18 years of age, effective Monday and running from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. This curfew remains in place until the start of the school year in September. Previously, Newark’s curfew regulations were limited to weekends, covering Friday through Sunday nights.

City officials have emphasized that the intention behind enforcing the curfew is not to criminalize youth but rather to ensure their safety. Newark Assistant Deputy Mayor Barry Ford articulated that the enforcement approach is geared towards protection, stating that significant issues would need to arise for law enforcement to issue a summons for curfew violations. The city has maintained a summer children’s curfew since 1992; however, enforcement measures have only recently been applied after a period of non-enforcement.

Mayor Ras Baraka has reiterated the city’s commitment to keeping children safe, framing the curfew as a proactive measure rather than punitive action. Officials attributed part of the curfew’s rationale to a reported 7% decrease in summer juvenile arrests from 2023 to 2024, suggesting that the curfew may be contributing to a safer environment for the youth in Newark.

The concerns surrounding youth hanging out late at night were also addressed by Ford, who indicated that individuals out at such hours might face various underlying issues, whether related to home environments or other social factors. The city aims to redirect young people towards safer environments, thus preventing them from becoming potential targets for criminal activities.

Baraka emphasized that there would not be arrests or fines for curfew violations, clarifying that the enforcement is primarily a protective mechanism. The Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery oversees the implementation of the curfew and conducts nightly patrols to ensure compliance. As Newark faces ongoing challenges related to youth safety and crime, the current modifications to the curfew represent a strategic approach aimed at fostering a safer community. The city’s focus remains on addressing the root causes of youth behavior while prioritizing their safety above all else.

The ongoing enforcement of this curfew will serve as a critical test for Newark as it navigates challenges associated with juvenile safety and community well-being throughout the summer months.