Parents In New Jersey Town Could Face Jail Or $2,000 Fines If Children Repeatedly Cause Public Disturbances

Parents In New Jersey Town Could Face Jail Or $2,000 Fines If Children Repeatedly Cause Public Disturbances

Gloucester Township, New Jersey, has adopted a new ordinance holding parents or guardians accountable if their children are repeatedly involved in public disturbances. The measure follows last year’s Gloucester Township Day, when fights and chaos involving hundreds of teens erupted at Veterans Park and a nearby shopping center. The event was canceled this year.

“Yes, the parents should have some repercussions for how their children are performing in the community,” said Mo H. of Lindenwold. “Had you governed them a certain way, this ordinance wouldn’t be necessary.”

Opponents, like Ozzie Smith-Bey of Clementon, warn that the law could create financial hardship. “Let it go through the courts the way it usually does,” he said.

According to police, the ordinance covers 28 offenses and could result in up to 90 days in jail or a $2,000 fine for parents if minors are repeatedly convicted. Lt. Paul Fisher stressed that cases will be reviewed individually.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Jasmine Brand (@the.jasmine.brand)

VIA: 6ABC Philadelphia