Lumberton Township Mayor Gina LaPlaca, a Democrat, is facing serious charges after allegedly driving under the influence with her toddler in the car on St. Patrick’s Day.
The incident occurred just days after she resigned from a separate municipal position, adding yet another layer of controversy to her political career.
NJ mayor Gina LaPlaca charged with DUI while driving toddler home from daycare on St. Patrick’s Day https://t.co/Y2RFuuNiuZ pic.twitter.com/jIjQuwQbzS
— New York Post (@nypost) March 19, 2025
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According to reports, LaPlaca, 45, was arrested on March 17 after she picked up her 2-year-old son from day care while allegedly intoxicated. Witnesses claim she was caught on video recklessly swerving on the road, nearly slamming into a utility pole.
The footage was shared with local police, who tracked her vehicle to her residence, WPVI reported, citing charging documents.
When officers arrived at LaPlaca’s home around 6 p.m., they found her toddler still strapped into his car seat in the back of her vehicle. Police also discovered an open container of alcohol inside the car, further implicating the mayor in the reckless ordeal.
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LaPlaca reportedly admitted to drinking while driving and was subjected to a field sobriety test.
She was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, and endangering the welfare of a child, according to court records obtained by The Post. She has been released with a summons and is scheduled to appear in court on April 28.
In response to the arrest, LaPlaca’s husband, Jason Carty, attempted to defend her, claiming she has been struggling with addiction and is seeking help.
In a Facebook post, he urged critics to look past this scandal, arguing that her past work in public service should not be forgotten.
“Please ignore the exaggerated political hyperbole and keep in mind her passion for helping others. This should not erase all the things she has accomplished for our community.”
LaPlaca has been a fixture in New Jersey’s Democratic political circles for years. First elected to the Lumberton Township Committee in 2020, she was appointed mayor in 2021 and has held onto the role for three consecutive terms.
Prior to her DUI scandal, she had also worked as the business administrator for Neptune Township, a position she resigned from on March 10. She attributed her departure to a “changing political environment.”
Her career in government includes time in the New Jersey General Assembly Majority Office, as well as corporate stints with Verizon and Anheuser-Busch.
She also chairs the Lumberton Democrats, further cementing her influence within the local Democratic Party.
Now, however, her political future appears to be in jeopardy. With serious charges hanging over her, LaPlaca’s legal and professional battles may just be beginning.
While her husband attempts to rally support, many residents are left questioning how someone entrusted with public leadership could make such reckless decisions—especially when the safety of a child was at stake.
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