Prince George's County weekend youth curfew officially begins at National Harbor
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Hundreds of young people stormed National Harbor last weekend. Police said there were fights, thefts, and vandalism. Starting Friday at 5 p.m., the county instituted a ban on unaccompanied children 16 and under from being at the popular retail district on weekends.
RELATED | Prince George's County enforces weekend youth curfew after National Harbor chaos
7News observed when Prince George’s County Police Department began staging for the curfew. Dozens of officers prepared to blanket National Harbor to enforce that curfew.
“This is not a babysitter for parents to drop their kids off at so I think it’s an awesome idea," said patron Deirdre Rector.
National Harbor teems with activity on weekends. It’s easy to see why: the view, shopping, restaurants, and more are all within walking distance.
“I come here all the time. My aunt lives here. I just enjoy being here. It’s safe. Hopefully, it remains that way," added Rector.
Rector's aunt is Donnita Nicholas.
“This is my happy place. One size fits all and it’s everything to me. The safety issue is a big deal and that’s how we protect ourselves," said Nicholas.
Nicholas said she very much enjoys residing at National Harbor. What unfolded last weekend, was preventable to her as long as parents do their job.
“I think it’s the parents' responsibility to make sure that when their kids are outside that they’re responsible and if we had that going on we wouldn’t be in this situation," added Nicholas.
Gwen Gregory and her pooch Chica lived in the area for five years. She couldn’t believe what happened in her backyard last weekend.
“It’s awful," said Gregory.
Gregory said she looks forward to seeing how county leaders and police deal with this issue in the short term and the long term.
“I don’t feel unsafe but I hate seeing that thing and it’s bad for business," concluded Gregory.
Parents could be fined up to $250 if their children violate the curfew.