Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato today called on all Ocean County drivers to put highway safety “first on the list” during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday and throughout the entire summer driving season. Coronato stated, “OC Law Enforcement will do our part by being extra vigilant. Our intent is to assure that all enjoy a safe and happy holiday.”

Thanks to projected beautiful weather for the coming holiday, this weekend will bring an excessive number of motorists on NJ/OC roadways. Prosecutor Coronato stresses that throughout the July 4th holiday weekend; Ocean County Law Enforcement will partner and coordinate efforts to maximize patrol resources throughout the July 4th holiday period and urged drivers to stay alert during their summer driving trips. The patrols will focus across the board enforcement on DWI, aggressive, careless, inattentive, drowsy drivers and seat belt violators as they go about their business of enforcing the state’s traffic laws and promoting safe driving practices.

The 2016 July 4th holiday officially begins Friday, July 1, at 6 pm and ends on Tuesday, July 5, at 5:59 am. During the 2015 July 4th holiday, Ocean County accounted for one (1) of the three (3) persons who lost their lives as a result of motor vehicle accidents on New Jersey roadways. .

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office also issued a reminder to OC residents and visitors that all fireworks are illegal to possess and use. It is a crime to sell, use, and/or possess any kind of fireworks—including Chinese firecrackers, Roman candles, M80’s, cherry bombs, salutes, M100’s, sparklers, etc.

OCPO noted that the vast majority of illegal fireworks are brought into Ocean County by adults and, as a result of such irresponsible actions, a disproportionate number of children suffer injuries. In an effort to prevent injuries and property damage, local departments will step-up enforcement activities during the summer “fireworks season” confiscating illegal fireworks.

Possession of illegal fireworks is a disorderly person offense and is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 30 days in jail. Possession with intent to sell is a Fourth Degree crime, punishable by fine of up to $10,000 and/or up to 18 months in jail. And, possession of destructive devices is a Third Degree crime with fines of up to $10,000 and incarceration of up to three to five years in jail.

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