Lawmakers reintroducing legislation to help prevent pop-up parties
The proposed bill would broaden what qualifies as riot and disorderly conduct offenses and impose tougher penalties on those who attack police during a riot.
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After chaotic scenes along the Jersey Shore over Memorial Day weekend last year, several New Jersey lawmakers are renewing efforts to crack down on “pop-up parties.”
The gatherings, which drew large crowds and led to public safety concerns in Long Branch, have prompted Sen. Bob Singer (R–Monmouth/Ocean) to reintroduce legislation aimed at preventing similar incidents.
The proposed bill would broaden what qualifies as riot and disorderly conduct offenses and impose tougher penalties on those who attack police during a riot.
It would also upgrade several lower-level violations to fourth-degree crimes, including disorderly conduct, blocking roads or highways and damaging or toppling monuments or statues.
In a statement, Singer warned that failing to act could have lasting consequences for the region.
“If we continue to ignore the problem, we risk damaging not only public safety but the reputation and economic lifeblood of our coastal communities,” he said.
Local residents and business owners say they’ve felt the impact firsthand.
“They have to enforce the laws, and the parents have to get very involved with their children, ” said Long Branch resident Brian Goldstein.
One store manager said the influx of large, unpredictable crowds has forced early closures and hurt operations.
“It’s definitely scary… we don’t know who is taking things and running. We’ve had to close multiple times early, and it’s definitely hurting us,” the person said.
Others believe stronger laws could help, though some question how much they will change behavior.
“I believe it will help. At the end of the day, kids are still going to be kids no matter what laws there are,” said Long Branch resident Michael Dakessian.
The legislation was originally introduced on Jan. 13 and is currently pending in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
