57°
The Washington Township and Gloucester Township Police Departments responded to the pool party on Bells Lake Road near School House Lane Monday night.
There, they found trash strewn on the streets and yards, intoxicated people, loud music and party-goers cars parked throughout this typically quiet residential neighborhood, Washington Township police said.
Officers spoke with security guards who were hired for the event and found that the home was rented out for the party via an online marketplace website. It was promoted on social media as a “Mansion Party" with party bus drop offs, hookah, food, drinks, vendors, dancers and bottle service.
Officers estimated there were more than 100 guests, each charged $40 to attend the party. Officers shut down the party and issued the homeowner a municipal ordinance violation for loud music and a municipal ordinance violation for littering.
One car was towed and several tickets issued for parking violations. Previously, the homeowner was issued a zoning violation ordinance and a noise ordinance violation. He on Tuesday was issued a disorderly persons offense and a criminal charge is being issued for maintaining a nuisance.
"These parties at this residence have put a strain on the resources of the Washington Twp. Police, causing most available officers on duty and neighboring towns to respond to bring them under control," police said.
"We will not tolerate these money making parties promoted on social media websites."
Police are attempting to address websites that advertise and broker house rentals on sites such as Booking.com, VRBO, Airbnb, etc.
Authorities vowed to use all enforcement tools to maintain the peace in the community.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Reading and receive free news updates.
