Police Warn of Unsanctioned Wildwood Event

Police Warn of Unsanctioned Wildwood Event

Law enforcement agencies in New Jersey are closely monitoring social media for any advertisements or indications of impromptu parties at the Jersey Shore. These so-called “pop-up parties” are a growing trend and pose a significant public safety threat.

Police officials have noted an increase in the number of events advertised on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. They are aware that some of these parties may attract large crowds, which can be difficult to control and manage.

The Wildwood police are now investigating an Instagram account that is advertising an unsanctioned ‘party on the beach’ titled The Wildwood Beach Linkup.

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This account, which is now removed from Instagram, called for a beach party on May 12th and 13th from 12 to “whenever” saying that there will be dance battles, twerking contests, beer pong, boxing matches and to Bring Your Own Bottles.

Organizing a gathering of people in Wildwood on a particular weekend is not against the law. Many families and friends plan such events frequently but concern arises when such gatherings promote unlawful activities, such as BYOB (Bring Your Own Beer), especially when its to those under the age of 21.

The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office put out a press release today about this event saying;

“If it appears the organizers continue promoting the event, the local police will do all within their legal authority to prevent the event from happening. If it does begin to take place, law enforcement will utilize all the appropriate resources and take the proper legal steps necessary to shut down the event. Law enforcement will also criminally charge and/or issue citations to any organizers or participants who violate our state laws and local ordinances.”

Organizing unsanctioned group events can pose a significant risk to both the public and participants. Local law enforcement, municipalities, and first responders may not be able to provide essential services and security to ensure compliance with laws, prevent injuries, and provide necessary assistance.

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Police departments in the region are taking proactive steps to prevent these parties from happening. This includes monitoring social media platforms for any indications of upcoming events, as well as deploying officers to known hotspots along the shore.

Prosecutor Sutherland wishes to inform the organizers and attendees that the Cape May County Prosecutor’s office, along with all local law enforcement agencies, will prosecute any such offenders to the fullest extent possible under the law.

Anyone with information regarding this proposed unsanctioned event, or any such event to contact the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office at (609) 465-1135, or the information can be reported anonymously through the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office Anonymous TIP System by visiting cmcpo.tips from any computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Information can also be reported to the Cape May County Sheriff’s Tip Line at emesheriff.net and click on an anonymous tip, or through the Cape May County Crime Stoppers, 609-889-3597