Teen Curfew Among Measures Mulled In Wake Of Now-Infamous Newport Beach Takeover

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — In response to a public outcry demanding city action after a rowdy Fourth of July weekend in Newport Beach, city officials are gathering to address the ongoing threat of "takeovers" in the community Tuesday.

At its meeting on Tuesday, the Newport Beach City Council will discuss potential changes to the city's municipal code — including a youth curfew, expanding the city's definition of a public nuisance and restricting mass gatherings planned on social media.

In addition, city officials will discuss a parent accountability measure that will direct staff to prepare an ordinance setting forth new regulations to encourage parental responsibility for minors who engage in "unlawful" or "disruptive" conduct.

The move comes after thousands of young people descended on the beaches of Balboa Peninsula Fourth of July weekend, setting off illegal fireworks, brawling and even looting a nearby Pavilions.

In addition, a police officer struck by a mortar was treated at the scene.

According to police, a "Tiktok takeover" triggered the ruckus.

"Yesterday, as our nation celebrated its semi-quincentennial with families and neighbors gathering peacefully, joyfully, and safely...a large group of agitators invaded Newport Beach, spurred on by an alleged 'TikTok Takeover,'" Newport Beach Police Association President Joe DeJulio said. "These persons came to our city with the intent on causing harm, injury, and destruction, bringing harassment, disturbances, and mayhem."

Video shows police on horseback charging into a crowd on the beach to break up the Fourth of July revelers.

A "TikTok takeover," is when a large, unannounced crowds of teens coordinate via platforms like TikTok or Instagram to meet up at a specific public location.

"The sudden influx of thousands of people into a confined area within a short period of time created an immediate threat to public safety and required a coordinated regional law enforcement response," the Newport Beach Police Department said in a statement. "Following an unlawful assembly declaration, more than 350 officers from the Newport Beach Police Department and 17 regional law enforcement agencies worked together to clear the area, disperse the crowd, restore emergency access and protect residents and visitors."