Authorities in New Jersey were forced to break up an “illegal” house party, which violated a mandatory stay at home order amid the global coronavirus pandemic. When police in Ewing arrived at the small 550-square foot apartment, they found 47 people crammed inside. The host even hired a DJ for the large party.
The organizer of the party, identified as 54-year-old Wade E. Jackson, was charged with obstructing the administration of law and violating an executive order. Police ordered everybody else to return home but did not cite them for defying the order.
“The goal was to break up the party and send everyone home,” County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri said in a statement. “Based on safety and resources, police made the right call to only issue citations to the host.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy was angry that residents were ignoring the order and putting countless people at risk of getting infected with COVID-19, which has killed more than 100 people in New Jersey.
“One hundred and forty invaluable, precious, unexpendable souls who are no longer with us in the Garden State because of this virus,” Murphy said during a press conference.
Later in the day, he warned residents that the state will be enforcing the stay at home order.
“Can’t believe I have to say this at all, let alone for the second time. But here we are. NO CORONA PARTIES. They’re illegal, dangerous, and stupid. We will crash your party. You will pay a big fine. And we will name & shame you until EVERYONE gets this message into their heads,” Murphy tweeted.
