Summer on the Jersey Shore is traditionally a time for fun, but recent events have raised concerns about escalating teen disorder. While underage drinking and marijuana use aren't new phenomena, officials and residents believe New Jersey's criminal justice reforms have inadvertently exacerbated the issue. These reforms, designed to divert juveniles from the court system, have seemingly emboldened some teens to engage in disruptive behavior, knowing the consequences are minimal.

Over Memorial Day weekend, incidents involving underage drinking, drug use, fights, and assaults were reported in Ocean City and Seaside Heights. Teens were observed hanging from balconies, climbing onto roofs, and engaging in public intoxication. Restroom attendants faced harassment and assault. Some teens were found carrying weapons, including a realistic replica gun.

Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian addressed residents, acknowledging the growing problem and the need for change. Longtime boardwalk worker Holly Kisby described a scene of widespread chaos, with teens drinking, smoking, setting off fireworks, fighting, and stealing. She emphasized the unprecedented scale of the disorder.

Ocean City Police Chief Jay Prettyman explained that the new cannabis law restricts police searches of individuals under 21 for marijuana or alcohol. This change, from potential arrest to a warning or parental notification, has become widely known among teens, who also understand their right to refuse identification unless they leave the scene. This knowledge, coupled with the potential for officers to face charges for violating teen rights, creates a challenging enforcement environment.

While the ACLU supports the reforms, emphasizing alternatives to criminal prosecution, some argue the pendulum has swung too far. A young beachgoer, Santiago Caceres, defended the restrictions on searches, citing concerns about racial profiling. His friend, Angel Aguero, highlighted the potential for lifelong consequences from a youthful mistake.

However, 15-year-old Nick DiMattina, who refrains from alcohol and cannabis, believes searches should be permitted. He learned about the legal changes on TikTok and fears the lack of consequences will encourage further misbehavior.

Bipartisan legislative efforts are underway to address the situation. Proposed bills aim to reinstate fines for underage possession, allow police searches, and protect officers from charges when acting in good faith. Senator Michael Testa expressed his concern about the observed "lawlessness" and is sponsoring legislation to establish alcohol and marijuana-free zones.

Similar juvenile justice reforms in other states, like Maryland, have also sparked debate about their impact on law enforcement's ability to address youth crime. Seaside Heights' mayor recounted instances of young teens openly defying police officers, confident in their immunity from consequences.

In response to the escalating problems, Ocean City implemented measures like beach closures, backpack bans, earlier curfews, and restroom closures. Seaside Heights followed suit, including the option to shut down the beach and boardwalk entirely. Other shore towns are also enacting curfews and alcohol bans to regain control.