LUMBERTON, NJ — Lumberton Mayor Gina LaPlaca was arrested and charged with driving under the influence and endangering the welfare of a child after an incident on St. Patrick’s Day, authorities have confirmed. The charges stem from allegations that LaPlaca drove while intoxicated with her two-year-old son in the vehicle.
According to reports, law enforcement received a video depicting a vehicle driving erratically, swerving between lanes, and narrowly avoiding a collision with a utility pole.
The vehicle was traced to LaPlaca, and upon contact, she reportedly admitted to consuming alcohol prior to picking up her son from daycare. Authorities also reported finding an open container of alcohol within her vehicle.
LaPlaca was subsequently arrested at her Lumberton residence the following day. She now faces charges of driving under the influence, child endangerment, reckless driving, driving with an expired license, and related offenses.
At a committee meeting Thursday, multiple members said that LaPlaca should resign as a result of the incident, including Terrence Benson, who said:
“My personal opinion is for the mayor to step down and to heal herself.”
In response, LaPlaca’s husband – former director of New Jersey Brewers Guild, Jason Carty, addressed the situation through social media, acknowledging his wife’s struggles with addiction and stating that she is now seeking professional help. He also requested compassion from the public during this difficult time.
Deputy Mayor Lori Faye released a statement expressing that the Lumberton township committee is supporting Mayor LaPlacas decision to seek help.
LaPlaca is scheduled to appear in court on April 28th. It has also come to light that LaPlaca had recently resigned from her position as Neptune Township business administrator.
At this time, it appears LaPlaca has no intention to resign.
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