TRENTON, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Unruly crowds running wild ruined several public events in South Jersey towns last spring and summer. A bill moving through the Legislature would create new penalties for people who promote public brawls.
There were numerous incidents and large fights at boardwalks in shore towns and at festivals and carnivals elsewhere. Assemblyman Dan Hutchison says one big fight during Gloucester Township Day was his inspiration for this legislation. The longstanding annual day of family fun was forced to end early last year when a massive fight broke out.
“It’s designed to criminalize the conduct that took place that day and protect the citizens and reassure the towns that they can hold these events without fear,” Hutchison said.
The bill would make it a “disorderly persons” offense to use social media to organize mayhem or brawls with four or more people. Worse offenses would come with more significant punishment.
“If the design organizing these individuals is to disrupt a public event, then it will be a fourth-degree crime punishable by up to 18 months in prison and significant fines approximating $10,000.”
Hutchison says there will be additional penalties for people who wear masks or try to hide their identity.
The bill has approval from the assembly public safety committee. Hutchison is hopeful this will be up for a full vote soon and that it can be signed into law before the spring to deter any bad behavior.