Virginia Beach Moves Teen Curfew to 10 p.m.

- The Virginia Beach city ordinance, which has been in place for over 40 years, was amended after a City Council vote on February 17, 2026; the new 10 p.m. start time will go into effect in 30 days. - Police Chief Paul Neudigate requested the change to give officers a tool to manage large, unsanctioned "pop-up" events at the Oceanfront, which are often promoted via social media and have previously led to violence. - During a "College Beach Weekend" in 2025, police made 53 arrests and confiscated 28 firearms while responding to what were described as "chaotic stampedes triggered by fears of gunfire." - Exceptions to the curfew for minors under 18 include emergencies, traveling to and from a job, attending a religious service or a "specified engagement or performance," and participating in First Amendment-protected activities. - Parents or guardians who knowingly permit a minor to violate the curfew can be charged with a Class 4 misdemeanor. - The new curfew comes at a time when overall crime in Virginia Beach has been trending downward; Police Chief Neudigate reported that violent crime saw a 27% decline since 2023, with 2025 having the lowest rates in five years.