American Notes DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

The nation's capital became its murder capital in 1988, with 372 slayings. This year has started out even worse: 93 killings as of Saturday, vs. 55 at the same point a year ago. To stop the slaughter, the D.C. city council voted last week to impose a 90-day curfew on children under 18. Those caught after 11 p.m. (midnight on weekends) would be hauled to police stations; parents of repeat offenders would be fined. Police are skeptical. In murder cases, says Police Chief Maurice Turner, the "average victim is 31, and the average perpetrator is over the age of 18." If Mayor Marion Barry signs the bill, the local A.C.L.U. has vowed to go to court against it.