FREEHOLD BORO, NJ – The Freehold Boro Police Department is taking Governor Murphy’s public wearing of facemasks seriously and have announced they will be cracking down on violators.
“Freehold Borough parks and recreation areas are now open for all to enjoy safely. It is the priority of the Freehold Borough Police Department and The Borough of Freehold to ensure the safety of those who use our public areas, as well as those who reside along the park’s borders,” the department said. “Everyone must follow all COVID-19 precautions and abide by all rules, laws, and ordinances. We ask that everyone be respectful of the other users of our parks as well as the surrounding neighbors. By Executive Order #163 all persons are required to wear face masks outdoors when they are unable to maintain social distancing of six feet.”
The department said they will be installing electronic monitoring devices to ensure compliance…possibly drones? Police did not say what electronic countermeasures would be employed against people visiting their parks.
“In order to ensure the safety of our residents, there will be enhanced police [presence] in all borough parks and their surrounding areas. In addition to increased patrol officers, electronic monitoring devices will be in place to assist in the identification of those who choose to violate the law,” the department said.
The law for violating Murphy’s executive order carries a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 60 days in jail.
Under a proposal by New Jersey Republican lawmakers earlier this year, that fine could have been as high as $15,000 if passed.
