Residents urge city action on youth violence, parental accountability and summer supports after weekend shootings

Several Portsmouth residents urged the City Council on Tuesday to address youth violence and its causes following a string of recent shootings tied to graduation events and neighborhood gatherings.

Joseph Kelly, a resident and event organizer, described shootings at graduation parties and called for more police presence and for the city to increase programs for youth: “We need more police presence in these streets,” he said, adding that existing curfew rules should be enforced. Council members confirmed the city’s curfew for youth is in place and reiterated the need for broad community involvement.

Sergio O’Neil pressed the council to consider stronger legal accountability for parents of juveniles who repeatedly offend, pointing to vandalism and violence he has observed: “If these parents are not doing the job…then guess what? Unfortunately, there has to be some parameter where the law has to come into play,” he said.

Council members and staff responded that responsibility is shared among families, schools, law enforcement and community organizations and noted ongoing summer programming to keep youth engaged. Councilwoman Thomas highlighted a city web listing of summer activities, free meals, and partnerships (YMCA, Portsmouth Public Schools) intended to provide supervised options for teens through the summer months.

Speakers called for both immediate enforcement steps and longer-term investments in youth programming. Council did not take any formal action during the meeting on parental accountability ordinances; speakers asked council and staff to consider referrals or policy work sessions to examine possible legal and programmatic responses.