Gina LaPlaca, the mayor of Lumberton Township in New Jersey, was arrested on charges of drunk driving on March 17. The 45-year-old Democrat is accused of picking up her two-year-old son from daycare while under the influence of alcohol, nearly causing an accident on the road. A video taken by a fellow motorist allegedly shows LaPlaca swerving dangerously and almost hitting a utility pole. The video was later handed over to the police.
The police traced the vehicle back to LaPlaca’s residence, where they encountered the mayor around 6 p.m. on the same day. The toddler was found safely strapped into a car seat in the back of the vehicle. An open container of alcohol was also discovered in the car. LaPlaca reportedly confessed to drinking while driving and was subjected to a field sobriety test.
LaPlaca was subsequently arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Additional charges of reckless driving and endangering the welfare of a child were also filed against her, according to court documents. She was released with a summons to appear in court on April 28.
Jason Carty, LaPlaca’s husband, came to her defense, stating that she has been battling addiction and is currently seeking help. He urged critics to refrain from attacking the mother of their children and to remember her dedication to serving others. LaPlaca and Carty share a toddler son, and LaPlaca also has a teenage stepson from Carty’s previous relationship.
LaPlaca was first elected to the Lumberton Township Committee in 2020 and was chosen to serve a one-year term as mayor in 2021. She was re-elected for the following three years. Prior to her political career, LaPlaca worked in the private sector for 11 years, including roles at Verizon and Anheuser-Busch.
Before her arrest, LaPlaca resigned from her position as business administrator for the Neptune Township, citing a “changing political environment” as her reason for leaving. She had held the position since January 2022, after serving as the assistant business administrator since November 2021.