America needs better leaders.
LUMBERTON TOWNSHIP, NJ — A shocking police bodycam video has surfaced showing Democrat Mayor Gina LaPlaca stumbling through a field sobriety test outside her suburban New Jersey home—after allegedly driving under the influence with her young son in the car.
LaPlaca, who serves as mayor of Lumberton Township, initially denied drinking when questioned by officers on March 17. But moments later, she admitted she had consumed alcohol—just before failing a field sobriety test captured on video.
Authorities say LaPlaca had just driven home in her damaged blue BMW, which showed deep scratches and a nearly destroyed side-view mirror. When asked what she hit, the mayor claimed she had no recollection.
Witnesses Reported Reckless Driving
According to police, a concerned citizen reported seeing LaPlaca driving erratically and provided officers with her license plate number. Officers located her as she pulled into her driveway.
Video footage shows the mayor removing her young child—still strapped in a car seat—from the back of the vehicle. One officer stayed with the child while others proceeded with questioning.
The situation escalated as LaPlaca failed the field sobriety test and was taken into custody. Officers then searched the vehicle and found an open water bottle containing alcohol.
Bodycam Footage Shows Emotional Breakdown in Holding Cell
Later footage, obtained by Fox News Digital, shows a tearful LaPlaca in a police holding cell. While agreeing to take a breathalyzer, she also demanded that officers contact the township’s Chief of Police.
In another disturbing moment, LaPlaca is seen lying on a bench at the station and asking to go home to see her son. An officer informs her she may need to be transported to a hospital instead.
WATCH:
🚨FULL BODY-CAM FOOTAGE: NJ Democrat Mayor accused of DUI with her toddler in the car
— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) March 28, 2025
Gina LaPlaca, 45, Mayor of Lumberton, was charged with DUI and now faces calls for her resignation from Lumberton residents
Police confronted LaPlaca after a bystander reported her driving… pic.twitter.com/CL4053oqQM
Facing Serious Legal Consequences
LaPlaca has been hit with multiple charges, including:
- Driving while intoxicated
- Endangering the welfare of a child
- Reckless and careless driving
- Driving with an expired license
- Possession of an open alcohol container in a vehicle
Public Outcry and Calls for Resignation
The arrest has sparked intense public outrage—especially among parents and local residents—who are demanding accountability. Critics argue that LaPlaca’s actions disqualify her from continuing in public office.
Her husband, Jason Carty, addressed the scandal in a Facebook post, revealing that LaPlaca has been battling addiction and is now seeking treatment.
“Millions of Americans struggle with addiction and never get help. Gina is now getting the help she needs,” he wrote. He also urged the public to ignore what he called “political hyperbole” and focus on her past work in the community.
Still, many voters remain unconvinced—and are asking whether someone facing such serious charges should remain in leadership.
LaPlaca is due back in court on April 28.