Sobbing drunk NJ mayor hospitalized after 'DWI' with vodka water bottle

LUMBERTON -- Recent police body cam footage has unveiled unsettling details surrounding the arrest of Mayor Gina LaPlaca, who was recorded stumbling and crying in her driveway during a field sobriety test. The incident, which occurred on March 17, showed LaPlaca allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol with her toddler in the back seat.

According to police reports, surveillance video depicted her erratic driving behavior, including near collisions with a utility pole. When officers arrived at her residence, LaPlaca was seen lifting her child from the car and was questioned about damage to the vehicle, to which she claimed ignorance.

During the sobriety test, LaPlaca struggled to maintain her balance, at times nearly falling. She confessed to consuming vodka while driving, and officers discovered a water bottle filled with vodka and multiple mini liquor bottles. In a moment of distress, she wept as she was placed in handcuffs and transported to a police vehicle, softly saying, "I'm sorry."

Once at the Lumberton police station, an officer informed her that her blood alcohol level was dangerously high and that she required medical attention. The mayor's absence at a recent Township Committee meeting has heightened tensions, with calls for her resignation from residents and fellow committee members.

In a statement to the media, her husband, Jason Carty, confirmed that LaPlaca is currently undergoing inpatient treatment to address her issues. However, questions remain about her political future, as the township attorney noted that the committee lacks the power to remove her from office.