Strong police presence planned for Memorial Day weekend at Long Branch boardwalk after Pier Village fights
City officials say there will be an increased police presence along the boardwalk and Pier Village this Memorial Day weekend following several violent incidents earlier this week.
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City officials say there will be an increased police presence along the boardwalk and Pier Village this Memorial Day weekend following several violent incidents earlier this week.
Despite a rainy and windy start to the holiday weekend, officials are preparing for crowds after multiple fights broke out Tuesday, including reports of people jumping on cars. Police arrested four teens and two adults in connection with the chaos.
The incidents have raised concerns among some residents and workers along the shore.
“I think it’s probably needed until things quiet down,” said Long Branch resident Gary DeGregorio. “But it’s going to be very hard to control it, because you have the train that comes in from New York, and people could just basically walk from the train right to the beach.”
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A lifeguard working in the area said stronger enforcement may help prevent similar situations.
“If everybody’s going to be going wild like that, it might not end up good,” he said.
In a statement, officials said anyone coming to Long Branch intending to engage in violence or disorder will be arrested and prosecuted.
Some residents say this isn’t the first time unruly behavior has disrupted the boardwalk during busy weekends.
“It’s not the first time… I just hope it’s the last,” one person said. Another added they were surprised by the number of people involved in last year’s incidents.
Still, many visitors say they feel the added police presence is necessary for safety.
“Memorial Day weekend, everyone’s down the shore, so it’s better to be safe than sorry,” one beachgoer said.
Others said visible patrols help create a greater sense of security.
“Even seeing officers walking around, I think that’s a good idea,” another said. “It makes people feel more protected.”
While the boardwalk remained relatively quiet as the weekend got underway, officials and residents alike are hoping last week’s chaos does not repeat itself.
