PRINCESS ANNE, Md. — Officials in Princess Anne are considering a town-wide curfew in response to persistent violent crime at the Residences at Pine Knoll, a 120-unit complex that has seen multiple gun violence and assault incidents in the past year.
“Safety is the main issue,” said Commission Vice President Shelley Johnson. She noted that some residents support the measure, especially those concerned for children and families.
Town Manager Jay Prouse emphasized that the curfew is just one of several crime-reduction strategies under discussion. Officials are collaborating with Pine Knoll’s management and law enforcement to explore solutions.
Local business owner Yusuf Hakem, who often works late, expressed concern that a curfew might not address the root causes of violence and could unfairly impact other residents. “Before you start delivering punishments, you might want to think about how to alleviate what people are going through,” he said.
Community member Michael Cannon, however, sees potential benefits. “You can plant a seed of negativity or positivity,” he said, suggesting a curfew could help steer youth away from trouble.
The town is set to meet with Pine Knoll’s property manager to discuss security options. Officials are also looking to neighboring towns, including Cambridge, which extended its juvenile curfew in September 2024, for guidance. Discussions remain preliminary, with no specific details yet on how a curfew would be implemented.