Lumberton Township Mayor Faces DUI and Child Endangerment Charges After Arrest

On March 17, 2025, at approximately 5:40 p.m., Lumberton Township, New Jersey, Mayor Gina LaPlaca was arrested for driving under the influence with her 2-year-old son in the car.
Police arrived at LaPlaca’s home after a concerned citizen reported her erratic driving. Officers approached her as she removed her child from the car seat. She appeared visibly impaired, slurring her speech and struggling to maintain her balance.
When questioned, LaPlaca admitted to drinking vodka before picking up her son from daycare. Officers noticed damage to her car’s side-view mirror, which she could not explain. A search of the vehicle uncovered a water bottle filled with alcohol and a small liquor bottle.

LaPlaca, 45, now faces multiple charges, including DUI, reckless driving, child neglect, endangerment, and driving with an expired license. She is scheduled to appear in court on April 28.

Following the arrest, her husband, Jason Carty, stated that LaPlaca is seeking treatment for addiction and requested public support, emphasizing her dedication to the community. However, some residents have called for her resignation.