Lumberton mayor charged with endangering her child during alleged DUI incident.
The mayor of Lumberton Township, Gina LaPlaca, has been indicted on charges related to an incident earlier this year in which she was charged with driving under the influence while her then-2-year-old son was in the vehicle. Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw announced the indictment on Thursday, revealing that LaPlaca faces significant legal repercussions, including second-degree endangering the welfare of a child and fourth-degree child abuse.
LaPlaca, 46, is scheduled to appear for arraignment on Monday. This legal action follows her earlier arrest in March, for which she had been charged with multiple offenses including child endangerment. This series of legal troubles has raised questions about her capacity to hold public office as she navigates these serious allegations.
Despite these challenges, LaPlaca was still listed as the mayor of Lumberton on the township’s official website as of Thursday. Efforts to contact her for comment were unsuccessful. On her social media, LaPlaca had posted promotional material for a holiday tree lighting celebration in Lumberton scheduled for Friday evening, indicating that she remains engaged in her official capacity.
LaPlaca’s arrest in March led to immediate consequences, including a censure from the township’s committee due to alleged ethical violations. Reports from committee members have indicated that LaPlaca’s behavior during her arrest included requesting the presence of the town’s police chief and presenting a risk to her child’s safety. This incident has since been the subject of public interest, particularly as footage from police body cameras documenting her arrest has gained prominence.
The indictment underscores the serious nature of the charges LaPlaca faces, which could have lasting implications on her political career and the community she serves. As the case continues to unfold, it has prompted discussions regarding accountability and the responsibilities of public officials, especially in relation to family welfare and public safety issues.
As the legal proceedings move forward, LaPlaca’s case serves as a significant example of the intersection between public service and personal conduct, raising important questions about the standards to which elected officials are held in their communities. The outcome of this matter will not only affect LaPlaca’s future but may also influence the public’s trust in local governance in Lumberton Township. Media News Source will continue to report on developments in this case.
