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Point Pleasant Beach police want parents to know that if their teenagers are out past curfew causing problems, the parents may be the ones held responsible. The no loitering rules have always been in place, but following what happened in the town four years ago when a pop-up party disrupted the family atmosphere of this town - along with rumors of another party two weeks ago - leaders were taking no chances heading into the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk will likely attract tens of thousands of visitors this week. And at 10 p.m., anyone under 18 found loitering or causing problems in town could be arrested - and their parents possibly fined up to $2,000. "We come here every week for the Fourth of July weekend,” says 13-year-old Lily Conte. Conte, visiting from Long Island, says the curfew and fine are good by her. "I think it's a pretty fair curfew because it's just keeping everyone safer and it's stopping violence and other bad stuff from happening in Point Pleasant," said Conte.
RELATED: Traveling for the Fourth of July? Here are the best and worst times to drive. RELATED: Jersey Shore officials prepare for major crowds for Fourth of July weekend celebrations In a statement to News 12, Mayor Doug Vitale explains the curfew. "In an effort to ensure the safety and well-being of our community, the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, with full support from the governing body, has implemented a 10 p.m. curfew for all juveniles under the age of 18, effective immediately,” Vitale wrote. The mayor says that over recent weeks, the town has seen an increase in incidents involving young people late at night, raising concerns among parents and residents alike. “This curfew is a proactive measure aimed at reducing the incidence of late-night incidents involving our youth, enhancing public safety, and promoting a more secure environment for everyone. We believe that by ensuring our young residents are home at a reasonable hour, we can better protect them from potential harm and foster a healthier community atmosphere,” Vitale stated. The mayor says that the curfew will be enforced by the local police department. He is asking for the cooperation of parents and guardians “in ensuring compliance.” Reaction to the news was mixed among adults. "The children need to be home with their parents and I think it's a great idea we need to step up and make sure they're safe and their home," said Kevin Brennan, of Brick Township. Carolyn Divine, visiting from Los Angeles, says she sees both sides. "I'm a mother of twin infants and so actually I like seeing the police presence. However, I also think that kids need to be kids and it does seem a little bit heavy-handed you know? Let kids be adventurous if they're not making trouble let him be," she said. Those over the age of 18 causing problems or creating a disturbance can also be fined up to $2,000 - as per the ordinance currently on the books. "
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