Nj prosecutor threatens jail time for people patronizing "illegal businesses"

BELLMAWR, NJ – With the news of several county businesses planning to open in spite of Governor Phil Murphy’s continued draconian business shutdown, Camden County Prosecutor Jill Mayer said anyone who visits those businesses can be subjected to jail time and a fine of up to $1,000. “While the Governor’s most recent Executive Order shows that slow, planned steps are being taken to safely reopen New Jersey businesses, functions, and facilities like parks, construction, and curbside pick-up, the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office is reminding residents that the other restrictions remain in effect,” Mayer said. “Under Executive Order 142, certain businesses are permitted to operate during the stay-at-home order. Those businesses and the social distancing practices they must follow are listed and defined on the New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub.”

Recreational and entertainment businesses such as movie theaters, gyms, bars, hair salons, retail shopping malls, tattoo parlors are some of the facilities required to remain closed until the order is lifted Mayer stressed.

“Anyone who patronizes a business that is open in violation of an executive order could face criminal charges in the form of a disorderly persons offense for which you could be fined up to $1,000 for each offense and spend up to six months in jail,” she added.

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