A new ordinance in Gloucester Township, New Jersey, allows parents to be fined or charged for their children's unruly behavior. The Minors and Parents Responsibility Ordinance was passed by the Township Council on July 28. It aims to hold parents accountable for preventing their children from breaking the law.

The ordinance was introduced following several incidents of public disturbances involving minors, particularly during last year's Gloucester Township Day and Drone Show. At that event, a significant brawl broke out among teenagers, resulting in 11 arrests, including nine minors. Additionally, three police officers sustained injuries during the altercation. Due to concerns about similar incidents, this year's event was postponed after social media posts indicated potential trouble.

The ordinance outlines 28 offenses that can lead to penalties for parents. These range from serious crimes to minor infractions, such as loitering, curfew violations, and chronic truancy. If a child is repeatedly found guilty in juvenile court, their parent or guardian could face up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

Before issuing a citation, guardians will receive a warning, according to Gloucester Township Police Chief David Harkins. He noted, "Our ordinance was actually sampled from other towns. We’re not necessarily the first, but we’re probably the first bigger town to adopt it."

Gloucester Township is located approximately 15 miles from Philadelphia. The police department is prepared to enforce the new rules as part of an effort to curb youth-related disturbances.