Spotswood moves ahead on underage drinking law
BY VINCENT TODARO
Staff Writer

SPOTSWOOD - The borough could be the next town to crack down on underage drinking.

On Monday, the Borough Council introduced an ordinance that would give police additional power when it comes to stopping underage drinkers. The law would allow police to arrest underage drinkers on private property, unlike in the past when they could only charge the minors on public property.

The fine for a first offense will be $250, and $350 for a second offense, according to the ordinance.

But the penalties aren't limited to money.

Those convicted of underage drinking can also have their driver's license suspended for six months, and the license will be forwarded to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission with the report. If the person convicted does not yet have a driver's license, the granting of the license can be postponed for six months.

Police Chief Karl Martin recommended the town consider the action, and council President Curtis Stollen said language in the proposed ordinance is strong enough so that police can enforce the law on private properties, such as house parties.

There is a provision, however, that would allow for people underage to consume alcohol as long as they are in the company of a parent or guardian. Stollen said he feels there is a privacy among family members that the state "has no business invading."

However, when outside adults provide alcohol for minors or allow them to drink, the act is punishable under the new ordinance.

There are also restrictions on what parents or guardians can allow.

"No one has permission to grant the right to drink except the relative who is in their presence," Stollen said.

The law will allow an exception to be made for families who allow minors to consume alcohol as part of a religious observance.

But language in the ordinance is broad, stating that the punishments apply to anyone under the legal age who knowingly possesses, buys, serves or consumes alcohol, or is under the influence.

In the past, when police came upon a party or other instances where they find underage drinking taking place, they could only charge those who provided the alcohol, and in some cases, the homeowner. Stollen said such instances happen "every so often" in Spotswood.

"It's not pervasive, but it does occur," he said. "This [ordinance] would be a much stronger way of containing youths' drinking."