GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ (CBS) — A group of New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a package of bills to crack down on groups of unruly teenagers at public events.
Twenty-three children and adults have now been arrested after caused chaos during Gloucester Township Day on June 1st.
“They were violent toward each other, but also toward officers and the general public,” said Gloucester Township Police Chief Dave Harkins.
From Gloucester Township to the promenade and beaches at the Jersey ShoreGroups of teenagers have been causing trouble in recent weeks, and the group of lawmakers said they had had enough.
“This kind of evil chaos, this kind of flash mob chaos cannot go unchecked,” said Senator Paul Moriarty (D-District 4) of New Jersey.
Lawmakers have introduced three bills that they believe will address the bad behavior. One bill would create a new charge for inciting a public fight, and the second would introduce a parental responsibility bill, making parents or guardians responsible for their children’s behavior.
“They could face fines and even charges,” said Assemblyman Dan Hutchinson (D-District 4). “You’re endangering law enforcement, you’re endangering families and you’re endangering yourself.”
“I think it’s good. I think that’s what’s needed. These unruly teenagers need to be brought under control,” June Dzierzynski said as she watched her granddaughter play on a playground after the announcement Thursday.
The third bill would give police more training in dealing with crowd control situations and managing mass gatherings.
“If cities can no longer host events for fear of unruly crowds, it will seriously harm the fundraising ability of so many valuable organizations,” said Assemblyman Cody Miller (D-District 4).
At next month’s council meeting, Gloucester Township Mayor Dave Mayer announced changes could be made to the city’s curfew ordinance. Any minor who violates the curfew could face a fine of up to $1,000 and possibly 90 days of community service. Mayer said parents could face the same penalties.
“We believe this is a responsible approach with real consequences,” Mayer said.
Seth Hill, who pushed his son on the swing at Veterans’ Memorial Park in Gloucester Township, agreed, saying the change is necessary.
“You can’t hold a 13-year-old responsible for the behavior of a 27-year-old,” Hill said. “It’s the parent. Let’s get back to parenting in America.”
Ryan Hughes
