In Gloucester Township, New Jersey, a new ordinance called the "Minors and Parent Responsibility" law aims to hold parents accountable for their children's unruly behavior. This law allows for parents to face up to 90 days in jail and a $2,000 fine if their child repeatedly engages in offenses such as loitering, truancy, or more serious crimes like felonies.
Police Chief David Harkins explained that the ordinance is a response to increasing incidents of "out of control" behavior by teens, including a massive brawl at the Gloucester Township Day and Drone Show last year, which resulted in injuries to police officers and multiple arrests. Harkins stated, "This ordinance is just another way of us trying to change the course and make parents responsible."
The law, which was passed in late July, targets parents of repeat offenders under 18. It includes due process protections, such as warnings before any potential criminal charges are filed. Gloucester Township Mayor David Mayer emphasized that the ordinance is part of a broader effort to address what he describes as a "juvenile crisis" in the community. He stated, "We have to get parents’ attention to make sure they’re tracking their children" according to NewsNation.
However, the ordinance has sparked controversy among parents and advocacy groups. Critics argue that it sets a dangerous precedent by penalizing parents for their children's actions. Alex Bougher from Moms for Liberty expressed concern, saying, "They’re getting attacked from every angle here" as reported by the New York Post. Others, like Nicole Stouffer from the New Jersey Project, question the effectiveness of the law, especially given existing challenges in policing and juvenile behavior management.