In response to public disturbances at community events last year – including fights that broke out during Gloucester Township Day last June – the state assembly has advanced two bills aimed at curbing public brawls and enhancing law-enforcement readiness.
One bill sponsored by Assemblyman Dan Hutchison would establish the offense of inciting a public brawl and increase penalties for those found guilty. Under the measure, individuals who organize or encourage groups of four or more people to engage in disorderly conduct could face criminal charges.
The offense, classified as a fourth-degree crime, would carry penalties of up to 18 months in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 – or both. Assemblywoman Carol Murphy co-sponsored the bill.
“We’re not going to let a handful of bad actors ruin community events for everyone else,” Hutchison maintained. “What happened last year was completely unacceptable. “(The bill) would establish real penalties for those who think they can stir up trouble and walk away without facing the consequences.
“We want people to enjoy these events, not fear for their safety.”
The second measure focuses on improving the ability of police to manage large gatherings. Sponsored by Assemblyman Cody Miller, it would require the state’s attorney general to create a specialized training program for law enforcement on crowd management and to provide municipalities with necessary resources, including social media access, monitoring tools and mobile command units.
Assembly members Margie Donlon and William Sampson co-sponsored the bill.
“If we want law enforcement to manage large crowds safely and effectively, we must equip them with the proper tools and training,” Miller emphasized. “Right now, officers are forced to react as situations unfold. This legislation ensures they have the necessary resources to maintain order and prevent chaos before it begins.”
In addition to the Gloucester Township Day disturbances, incidents that have inspired the assembly bills include Memorial Day weekend situations in Seaside Heights, Ocean City and Wildwood. And a Parent-Teacher Association-sponsored event in Collingswood in October saw approximately 200 teenagers engage in fights and other disorderly conduct.
For more information on the assembly bills, New Jersey Assembly Democrats.
