file photo by Boyd Loving
this was introduced last year ….
“ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY – MISCHIEF NIGHT AND HALLOWEEN – PARENT ADVISORY”
October 28,2017
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood Police Department will be continuing our Zero Tolerance Policy this year during “Mischief Night” and Halloween (October 30th and 31st respectively). This policy is vital for the safety of our children and the protection of property. We are urging parents to take an active role in order for assist us in this endeavor.
Historically, our community had experienced significant property damage as well as mischievous and criminal behavior by unsupervised juveniles and young adults on these nights. We have also had problems with juveniles congregating in large groups in various areas of the Village. Parents and guardians should be aware of the activity that occurs when their children are unsupervised. Most property damage and criminal activity occurs when seemingly harmless behavior and pranks escalate out of control. Parents are asked to establish dialogue with their children about unacceptable behavior or, more importantly, not allow their children out without adult supervision. Parents must be cognizant of their children’s actions and behavior. Children leaving the home dressed in dark clothing and/or in possession of items such as eggs, shaving cream and other malicious items are traditionally a formula for trouble.
This year, we are recommending that all parents limit their children’s “mischief” to their own property. In the past, homes and moving vehicles have been the target of eggs, rocks and, in some instances, paintball guns. Toilet paper strewn across utility lines has created visibility hazards, which can easily lead to serious danger for the motoring public and our children.
The standards that we will be enforcing this year include:
A Zero Tolerance policy towards acts of Criminal Mischief, Trespassing and aggressive behavior. Anyone found defacing or damaging property will be transported to police headquarters and will face criminal charges.
Any children found with items that we believe pose a significant threat to persons or property will be transported to police headquarters and may face criminal charges. These items include eggs, spray paint, paintball guns, etc.
Anyone who operates a motor vehicle in violation of the law will be issued the appropriate motor vehicle summonses.
We will be confiscating all potentially destructive items, including toilet paper and shaving cream, from children who are wandering unsupervised on our streets. Names of all unsupervised juveniles will be recorded.
We will be supplementing the normal patrol force throughout both Mischief Night and Halloween with additional officers to prevent criminal mischief, criminal activity, and aggressive driving and to ensure the safety of our children. It is important for parents and the community to work in cooperation with the Ridgewood Police Department to deter criminal activity and make both Mischief Night and Halloween safe and enjoyable for all.
Oh, it is ON!! LOL
The hot costume in Ridgewood is to be a non-English speaking scruffy-bearded unkempt Grandpa in an orange shirt, yellow pants, black socks and sandals, asking “Where’s the nearest elementary school?”
Oh here we go more Overtime.
The story that it was a grandfather picking up his grandchild does not hold water in my book. Really? he had no idea where to go? His daughter/son did not tell him the name of the school, the address? His English was limited, but not so limited that he couldn’t ask for the nearest school. Come on people, that was a strange and unbelievable story. I think he was a troubled person and I am glad the police got him away from the schools, even if he meant no harm. Thank you to whoever made the call to the police. And thank you to the police for managing it so well.
1:52. This is a legitimate explanation for what happened that day. The family lives near Ridge School. They recently moved from the willard neighborhood, and they have a child who remained at the willard school. The grandfather simply got lost trying to find the school on foot. He is visiting from another country, does not speak enough english to have navigated a conversation with the police or while asking directions. Very simple explanation and no conspiracy. He was dressed that way because people from other countries dress differently. Anyone who has everyone been to Europe knows exactly what i am talking about. I saw him the same afternoon while walking my dog and was not concerned or afraid. And, by the way, no vest. Have no idea where that came from. If there is any conspiracy, it should be why he was reported to be wearing one.
There was indeed a vest. It can be seen clearly in one of the photos posted on Facebook. Look on the hood of the police car he h was subdued next to.
@ October 28, 2017 at 10:28 am, Oh here we go more Overtime…..you absolutely right….why not use money for more school improvements and overall appearance of Ridgewood
2:35 – Why do you keep mentioning a conspiracy? What the heck are you talking about? No one suggested a conspiracy. People simply suggested that a call to the police was not unreasonable and the police response was appropriate. I have been to Europe many times. I have no idea what you are talking about. A man with a jumpsuit and a weighted vest does not blend. Sorry.