Baltimore's Fells Point Gets New Safety Rules After Violent Incidents

Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood now has new safety rules after several large, unruly teen gatherings caused problems in recent weeks. The Mayor's Office of Arts, Culture, and Entertainment — also called MOACE — announced the changes on social media on a Friday night. The new rules set up checkpoints, bag checks, and age limits to help keep visitors safe. Officials say the policies are meant to make Fells Point a better place for everyone who goes there.

Under the new rules, people cannot bring outside alcohol past the entry checkpoints. Any drinks must be bought and finished inside the businesses in the area. Police also have the right to check backpacks and large bags for weapons or alcohol. If a person refuses the bag check, they will not be allowed into the permitted event space.

Visitors also need to show a real ID to get in. A photo of an ID on a phone will not be accepted, and the only other option is a verified TSA phone wallet app. Anyone who cannot prove their identity will be turned away. Young people 17 and under must also be with an adult who is at least 25 years old and carries a valid ID.

There is also a curfew for young people who are out on their own. Kids 13 and under must be home between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Teens ages 14 to 17 have a curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Anyone who breaks the rules inside the permitted space can be removed for things like fighting, making threats, or drinking alcohol in the area.

The new rules came about one month after police had to break up a large crowd in Fells Point. That same weekend, two separate shootings were reported in the neighborhood. Resident Sophia Gana said the violence had reached a level she had never seen before. MOACE said in its post that the policies are designed to create 'a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits.'

Many people who live in and around Baltimore say they support the changes. Joyce Angelini said she always feels safer when she sees police or security present. Fells Point resident Layrena Romero said the changes are heading in the right direction. Others noted the violence had already made them nervous about going out at night.

Not everyone is fully happy with the new approach, though. Daniel Jacks said he worries the rules could lead to racial profiling, where people are stopped based on how they look rather than what they have done. Aladji Barra said he supports making Fells Point safer, but everything needs to be carefully planned. He said the process must make sure everyone feels respected and that the environment is racially inclusive.