Teen Fights, Illegal Fireworks, Shooting Leads To Youth Curfew In Laurel

LAUREL, MD — Teens cannot hang out in public places after 11 p.m. after city officials enacted a citywide curfew that took effect Friday.

The curfew stems from several incidents that happened Fourth of July weekend.

"The Laurel Police Department is deeply disturbed by the widespread criminal behavior that overshadowed this year’s Fourth of July celebration. What should have been a joyful community gathering was instead marred by violent fights, reckless dirt bike activity in crowded areas, property damage, illegal fireworks and a shooting that injured a 17-year-old. These actions endangered lives, injured officers and forced families to leave an event meant to unite us," said Laurel Police Chief Russ Hamill.

Large groups of teens engaged in fights, set off illegal fireworks and one teen was shot during Laurel's Independence Day Celebration at Granville Gude Park July 5 that thousands attended, the police department stated.

Hamill described the behavior as "unacceptable." and said the curfew implemented by Laurel Mayor Keith Sydnor is designed to prevent similar situations from happening again.

"To parents and guardians: you must take responsibility. These problems begin at home. Talk to your teens. Set expectations. Law enforcement cannot solve this alone, accountability must start within families and continue across the community," Hamill said. "Our officers are reviewing extensive video footage and will pursue criminal charges where warranted. We will not allow future events to be compromised by lawlessness. The safety of our community is not negotiable. This curfew is one step toward restoring order, peace and mutual respect in our public spaces."

The curfew took effect July 11 and lasts through Aug. 31. The curfew states that any resident under the age of 17 cannot be present in any public places between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday through Saturday.

The curfew does not apply to the following conditions:

• When a juvenile is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• When a juvenile is returning home, via a direct route and within one hour of the conclusion of a
  • School activity
  • Religious or voluntary association activity
  • Public entertainment event (e.g., movie, concert, play, or sporting event)
• When the juvenile is working and can provide valid proof of employment upon request.

“As mayor, the safety of our young residents is a top priority. This temporary curfew is a proactive step to ensure our community remains safe and secure during the busy summer season,” Sydnor said. “We urge parents and guardians to speak with their children about the curfew and support our efforts to foster a safer Laurel.”