Pirro Launches Crackdown on Parents of Teens Behind D.C. ‘Takeovers’

“This is going to be a strict liability crime and a strict liability prosecution,” Pirro said. “You can’t just say, ‘Well, I didn’t know.’” According to Pirro, penalties could include jail time of up to six months, court-ordered parenting classes, fines, and financial liability for property damage caused by minors.

“Starting now, parents? You’re paying the bills,” she said. “And if you allow them to continue? We’re gonna prosecute you.”

The policy shift comes amid mounting political pressure over rising concerns about youth violence and public disorder across the District.

Videos of massive teen gatherings overwhelming restaurants, retail stores, subway stations, and public streets have circulated widely online over the past year, fueling criticism that city leaders failed to respond aggressively enough.

Pirro sharply criticized the Muriel Bowser administration and the D.C. Council for what she described as years of weak enforcement and political hesitation.

“Parental involvement has been a noted gap in any discussion,” Pirro said. “That ends today.”