Mercer Co. City Cracks Down On Unsupervised Minors, Enforces Nighttime Curfew

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — The Trenton Police Department announced Thursday it is immediately enforcing a juvenile curfew ordinance aimed at reducing unsupervised youth activity during nighttime hours.

Under Ordinance 58-3, minors under 18 are barred from public spaces — including parks, streets, sidewalks, and commercial areas — without a parent or legal guardian during designated hours.

From July 1 through Aug. 31, the curfew runs from 11:59 p.m. to 6 a.m. From Sept. 1 through June 30, it takes effect at 9:59 p.m. and lifts at 6 a.m.

Exceptions apply to minors accompanied by a parent or guardian, traveling to or from work, school or a religious or recreational activity, responding to an emergency, or engaged in First Amendment-protected activities such as protests or religious expression.

Violations may result in a warning, citation or referral to juvenile services, depending on the circumstances, according to Police Director Steve E. Wilson.

Residents with questions or seeking an exemption may contact the Trenton Police Department at 609-989-3905.

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