Crime & Safety

Halloween Curfews Issued in New Milford

In light of attempted lurings, Chief Papapietro issues 8 p.m. curfews for Oct. 30 and Oct. 31.

Police Chief Frank Papapietro said that in light of the recent luring events in New Milford, Bergenfield’s current luring incident and the tragedy that is unfolding in Gloucester County with the death of 12-year old Autumn Pasquale, he has issued an 8 p.m. curfew for all Mischief Night and Halloween activities on October 30 and October 31. 

"Large amounts of children on the streets, most unescorted, creates a target-rich environment for pedophiles," Papapietro said.  

Papapietro said that given the current climate, the following conditions will be imposed on October 30 and October 31 and will apply to all persons on the street within the Borough of New Milford:

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  • After 8 pm anyone on the street under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at least 21-years old.
  • Those under 18 not accompanied by an adult over 21-years old will be transported to Police Headquarters where a responsible adult over 21-years old will be notified to take custody.

"I regret that these measures need to be implemented, but I believe that recent circumstances necessitate it," Papapietro said. "The safety of the Borough’s children is in our hands."

Papapietro has also notified Superintendent of Schools, Michael Polizzi who will make sure that this information is disseminated to all families in the school district.

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"We are requesting that parents be especially vigilant over their children while trick-or-treating and report suspicious activity immediately to your local police department," Papapietro said.

According to Papapietro, Dumont Police are implementing the same curfew and police chiefs in surrounding towns are considering the same.


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