Belmar Police Provide Context on Beach Arrest With Body Camera Video

BELMAR, NJ - In response to public concern and circulating misconceptions, Belmar Police Chief Tina Scott has issued a statement and video regarding the arrest of a surfer on Belmar Beach on Tuesday, August 20th . The incident, which involved local surfer Liam Mahoney and Officer Braswell, has sparked widespread attention after video footage of the arrest surfaced online.

Chief Scott emphasized that the arrest was not due to Mr. Mahoney's failure to possess a beach badge but rather stemmed from his refusal to cooperate with the officer's investigation. According to the body-worn camera footage reviewed by Chief Scott, Officer Braswell initially approached Mr. Mahoney during a routine check for daily and seasonal beach badges after receiving multiple complaints about surfers entering the beach illegally across the dunes.

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Scott stated, "During the week, officers received multiple complaints regarding surfers illegally entering the beach across the dunes. The gate attendants requested these surfers to show their beach badge, however, their requests went ignored. On this date, the officers who were assigned to the beachfront conducted a check for daily and seasonal badges."

When asked to present his badge, Mr. Mahoney reportedly responded, "I do not need one." Officer Braswell then informed him of the state and local laws requiring a beach badge and requested his identification to issue a summons. Mr. Mahoney refused to provide his information and began to walk away, despite being informed that he was not free to leave.

The situation escalated when Mr. Mahoney continued to resist Officer Braswell's attempts to de-escalate the encounter, ultimately leading to his arrest after refusing multiple requests to comply.

Scott added, "Mr. Mahoney was told approximately nine to ten times to place his hands behind his back, but he continued to resist preventing, Officer Braswell from handcuffing him. Officer Braswell continued to speak with Mr. Mahoney to try to de-escalate the situation and avoid additional physical contact. Mr. Mahoney continued to not cooperate with Officer Braswell who then took him to the ground to gain control of his arms in order to place him under arrest."

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Chief Scott further clarified that under N.J.S.A. 40:61-22.20, municipalities bordering the Atlantic Ocean are permitted to charge fees for maintaining beaches and providing facilities, and this requirement applies to all beachgoers, including surfers.

A thorough review of the arrest is currently underway in accordance with New Jersey Office of the Attorney General guidelines. The body-worn camera footage from the incident has been made available as part of the ongoing investigation.

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