A number of New Jersey mayors of beach towns are calling for stricter penalties for juvenile offenders as they deal with an increase in teen mobs causing trouble in vacation communities. Recent incidents in Seaside Heights, Ocean City, and Wildwood have highlighted the need for stiffer consequences for unruly behavior. In Seaside Heights, summer-long curfews for juveniles and a ban on house rentals without an adult present have been imposed to combat the issue. The mayors are urging the state legislature to pass legislation that will make it easier for law enforcement to enforce rules and hold offenders accountable, as they believe the current system lacks the necessary consequences to deter bad behavior.
In Wildwood, Mayor Tony Troiano Jr. declared a state of emergency over Memorial Day weekend due to out-of-control teens. He stated that there will be zero tolerance for unruly behavior and that the laws of the state cannot tie the hands of the police in enforcing order. Troiano, along with other local leaders, is hoping for changes to state law that will enable officers to do their jobs effectively and ensure safety in their communities. This includes addressing issues such as underage drinking and smoking dope, which are becoming increasingly problematic among young people.
The situation in Ocean City has also been challenging, with multiple teens being arrested for disorderly conduct, fights, and shoplifting during Memorial Day weekend. Mayor Jay Gillian emphasized that the city will not tolerate such behavior and is working to restore order on the boardwalk. The lack of repercussions for offenders has allowed them to continue breaking the rules without fear, leading to increased lawlessness among young people. The mayors are advocating for changes that will empower law enforcement to take action against repeat offenders and prevent future incidents.
The mayors attribute the rise in unruly behavior among teens to a lack of parental supervision and discipline. They have observed that many minors do not fear consequences for their actions, leading to a sense of entitlement and disrespect for authority. As a former superintendent of schools, Mayor Vaz of Seaside Heights has seen a significant shift in the way young people interact with adults and police, with many showing blatant disregard for rules and laws. The mayors are emphasizing the need for parents to take more responsibility for their children’s behavior and for law enforcement to have the tools necessary to address the issues effectively.
Former police sergeant Betsy Branter Smith believes that the root cause of the problem lies in parenting, but also points to state laws and policies that hinder law enforcement from maintaining order effectively. She suggests adopting a zero-tolerance policy similar to other cities that have successfully curbed unruly behavior among teens. By cracking down on all types of offenses, including alcohol use, these cities have been able to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for residents and tourists. The Jersey Shore mayors are hopeful that by advocating for legislative changes, they can create a safer and more secure environment for their communities and businesses during the summer season.
The mayors have launched a campaign to bring attention to the issues they are facing and are pushing for legislative changes that will enable law enforcement to address the surge in juvenile crimes effectively. They are hopeful that the state government will listen to their concerns and take action to support their efforts to maintain safety and order in their communities. By enforcing consequences for bad behavior, cracking down on underage drinking and drug use, and promoting a culture of respect and accountability, the mayors believe they can address the root causes of the issue and create a positive environment for families, residents, and visitors to enjoy the beaches and boardwalks of the Jersey Shore.
