New Jersey's statewide police union has called for 'real consequences' for individuals engaging in drunken and rowdy behavior in public places, particularly teens and young adults, following a series of disturbances at Jersey Shore towns over the Memorial Day weekend. The incidents included a stabbing of a 15-year-old boy.
The president of the New Jersey State Policemens' Benevolent Association issued a statement urging changes in laws and procedures governing police interactions with disorderly individuals. The weekend saw Wildwood temporarily closing its boardwalk due to overwhelming disorderly behavior, while Ocean City experienced multiple fights and disturbances.
Authorities also dealt with a false report of a shooting in Seaside Heights, causing brief panic on the boardwalk. The police union president emphasized the need for consequences for violent and dangerous behavior by both juveniles and adults, stating that the current criminal justice policy of no consequences for bad behavior has failed.
Officials in various Jersey Shore towns attribute the disturbances to juvenile justice reforms enacted by the state in recent years, which aimed to keep more juveniles out of the court system and imposed restrictions on police interactions with them. Governor Phil Murphy defended the changes, stating that law enforcement was better equipped to handle disorderly teens.
Local mayors expressed frustration with the unruly behavior, with Ocean City's mayor emphasizing the city's commitment to enforcing laws and restoring order. Wildwood's mayor echoed similar sentiments, pledging not to tolerate disruptive behavior and supporting the police department in maintaining community safety.
While specific details of the incidents leading to the boardwalk closures were not provided, authorities confirmed an overwhelming number of calls for help. The Cape May County prosecutor affirmed the actions taken by Wildwood police to restore order.
Efforts are being made to address the challenges posed by disorderly behavior, with a focus on ensuring public safety and holding individuals accountable for their actions.
