Clashes broke out in Washington Square Park overnight as police tried to implement the new 10 p.m. curfew.
Police equipped with riot gear used physical force against dozens of people who remained inside the park after the cut-off time.
Publications on social networks indicate some of those gathered were participating in protests.
At least 22 people were arrested, with charges still pending.
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Videos in the park show officers pushing people and their bikes.
The police used loudspeakers to demand the dispersal of the crowds, otherwise they would be arrested for illegal entry.
The Parks Department and the uniformed police instituted a temporary weekend curfew over complaints of noisy crowds, drug use and loud music.
Previously, the park’s closing time was midnight.
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