Newly released police bodycam footage captures the dramatic moment New Jersey mayor Gina LaPlaca was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence with her toddler in the car on St Patrick’s Day.
Lumberton township officers confronted the 45-year-old mayor in the driveway of her home around 5.40 pm on March 17, following a 911 call from a concerned resident who reported erratic driving. The footage, made public by Lumberton Police, shows officers approaching LaPlaca as she removes her child from the back seat of her BMW sedan.
“Are you OK?” one officer asks, as LaPlaca, appearing unsteady, lifts her son out of the car.
“Yes, I am,” she responds, only to suddenly lose her balance and stumble into the vehicle.
Officers then questioned her about the condition of her car’s side-view mirror, which was visibly crushed. Initially, LaPlaca said the damage was preexisting but later admitted to hitting something, though she could not specify what.
The footage shows police conducting a field sobriety test, during which LaPlaca struggled to maintain her balance, particularly when asked to stand on one leg. Moments later, she broke down in tears as officers placed her in handcuffs.
“I’m sorry,” she said, visibly emotional.
Upon searching her vehicle, officers reportedly discovered a water bottle filled with alcohol and a small liquor bottle.
LaPlaca was subsequently arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, and endangering the welfare of a child, according to court records. She was later released with a summons and is scheduled to appear in court on April 28.
