Lumberton Mayor LaPlaca Arrested for DUI and Endangerment

Lumberton Mayor Gina LaPlaca was arrested for driving under the influence and child endangerment after allegedly driving erratically with her 2-year-old son in the car on March 17. Witnesses captured video evidence of her swerving and nearly hitting a utility pole, leading police to her home where she admitted to drinking and was found with an open alcohol container in her vehicle. LaPlaca faces multiple charges, including DUI, reckless driving, and endangering a child, and is scheduled to appear in court on April 28. Her husband, Jason Carty, confirmed she is receiving treatment for addiction and urged the public for compassion, emphasizing her previous contributions to the community. LaPlaca recently resigned as Neptune Township's business administrator, citing political pressures. The incident has sparked mixed reactions from the community, with some calling for accountability akin to what others would face under similar circumstances.