Cape May enacts emergency juvenile curfew and beach restrictions

The Cape May City Council has unanimously adopted emergency safety measures following requests from local police to address recent disturbances. The new ordinance implements a stricter curfew for unaccompanied juveniles, moving the timeframe to 8 pm through 6 am on city streets and in public spaces.

Under the emergency restrictions, unaccompanied juveniles are also banned from beaches, beachfront areas, and access ways during those same hours. Additionally, a new rule prohibits both juveniles and adults from carrying or wearing backpacks on the beach, bayfront, or Promenade after 8 pm. Violators of the backpack provision will receive two warnings before being cited for a “breach of the peace.”

Police Chief Dekon Fashaw noted that the measures were prompted by incidents in July involving large groups of juveniles blocking pedestrian traffic and participating in an assault. Exceptions to the curfew are permitted for juveniles traveling to or from work or those accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.