New Ordinance Targets Parental Responsibility
In a significant move to curb juvenile delinquency, a New Jersey town has enacted a new ordinance that holds parents accountable for their children’s unruly behavior. The Township of Gloucester Minors and Parents Responsibility Ordinance, passed by the Township Council on July 28, introduces penalties for parents and guardians who fail to prevent their children from engaging in illegal activities. This ordinance was prompted by incidents of public disturbances involving minors at events such as last year’s Gloucester Township Day and Drone Show.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
The ordinance outlines 28 offenses, ranging from serious felonies to minor infractions like loitering, breaking curfew, or chronic truancy. Parents could face severe consequences if their child is repeatedly found guilty in juvenile court. These include up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000. However, before any citation is issued, guardians will receive a warning, as stated by Gloucester Township Police Chief David Harkins.
Background of the Ordinance
The decision to implement this ordinance followed a large brawl involving teenagers during last year’s Gloucester Township Day, resulting in 11 arrests and injuries to three police officers. The event was postponed this year due to social media posts suggesting similar disturbances were planned. The ordinance aims to prevent such incidents by holding parents accountable for their children’s actions.
A Broader Trend in Youth Crime Prevention
Gloucester Township is not alone in adopting such measures. According to Police Chief Harkins, the ordinance was modeled after similar laws in other towns, although Gloucester is one of the larger municipalities to enforce it. This approach reflects a growing trend across the nation where communities are taking tougher stances on youth crime by involving parents directly.