Virginia Beach Tightens Teen Curfew
Officials in Virginia Beach have moved the city's teen curfew one hour earlier, to 10 p.m. from 11 p.m. The change, which takes effect on March 19th, is a response to what officials describe as rising crime in the city.
- The Virginia Beach City Council approved the curfew change with a 10-0 vote. The city's police department requested the adjustment to better address large, unpermitted gatherings, particularly during the tourist season. - A violation is considered a Class 4 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum fine of $250 but no jail time. However, officials have stated the primary enforcement will involve police taking the minor to a designated city facility where a parent or guardian must pick them up. - This change comes even as Police Chief Paul Neudigate reported a 27% decline in violent crime in the city between 2023 and 2025, with juvenile shooting victims and suspects dropping by 45-50% from 2024 to 2025. - The curfew for unaccompanied minors under 18 is not new to the city; it has been part of the city code for more than 40 years. - Several exceptions are built into the ordinance, allowing minors to be out during curfew hours for emergencies, traveling to or from work, or attending a specific performance or religious service. To attend a specific event, the minor must carry written permission from a parent or guardian. - Research on the effectiveness of teen curfews is mixed. A 2016 Campbell Collaboration review of multiple studies concluded that curfews are ineffective at reducing crime and victimization. Other studies suggest they can be an effective tool in reducing juvenile crime.
