NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Newport News city council unanimously approved on Tuesday a temporary curfew for unaccompanied minors set for June 10, and on Friday and Saturday nights at City Center.
The ordinance, sponsored by Councilman Rob Coleman, is intended to keep City Center safe and welcoming for the community and visitors, Mayor Jones’ office says.
"Public safety is our top priority," Jones said in a statement. "We must take proactive steps to protect our community and ensure City Center remains a safe and welcoming destination for everyone."
The 7 p.m. City Center curfew will apply on June 10, and Friday and Saturday nights for unaccompanied minors until July 5. Jones clarified during the meeting that this is a "temporary emergency measure."
The 11 p.m. city-wide curfew for unaccompanied minors has also been pushed forward an hour to 10 p.m.
Watch full press conference: Newport News Police Chief Drew provides context behind viral video showing officer pointing his gun at an SUV
Jones’ call to consider a temporary curfew follows the arrest of 14 teens over the weekend after multiple fights broke out at City Center.
On Saturday around 8 p.m., police arrived at City Center on the report of a gathering of about 300 people. The group of people grew and multiple fights broke out, so more officers were sent to the scene, according to NNPD.
In total, 14 juveniles were arrested on charges including trespassing, disorderly conduct and curfew violations. All 14 are back at home with their families, according to NNPD.
City Councilman Rob Coleman says the City Council will meet Tuesday evening to discuss specifics, with more details expected during their 7 p.m. meeting.
"These are some short term remedies that we believe are going to help us in the long term provide better public safety for everyone," Coleman said.
"We want to get in front of this. We have seen the trend not only here on the Peninsula, but here in Hampton Roads and the country, and as a council we want to be proactive," Coleman said.
Troy Ketchmore, co-founder of Ketchmore Kids — an organization that works with and mentors young people in the city — says social media has dramatically changed how these events come together.
Ketchmore says young people don't always fully assess the risk involved.
"They don't totally assess the risk and it's just young people being young people, so we shouldn't be too judgmental. Now's the time for solutions," Ketchmore said.
Ketchmore says he supports the push.
"I'm supportive of whatever keeps our young people safe," Ketchmore said.
He also plans to hold town hall meetings to better understand what young people in the community are looking for.
"We're trying to get everybody in the same room and figure out what it is you want. What do you want? That's what we have to figure out," Ketchmore said.
Ketchmore says the goal is clear for everyone involved.
"Everybody, the goal is to be safe and alive and make it home," Ketchmore said.
Watch previous coverage: Virginia Beach leaders vote 10-1 to approve temporary 9:30 p.m. all-age Oceanfront curfew
Across the water, Virginia Beach city leaders initially put in place a temporary “imminent threat” 7 p.m. curfew for minors after shootings at the Oceanfront back in March. Then in April, city council voted to implement an all ages 9:30 p.m. curfew at the Oceanfront for two weekends. However, before the second weekend, a judge halted this stricter curfew from being implemented.
