Belmar, New Jersey, made headlines on Tuesday when police arrested a surfer for charges of disorderly conduct allegedly because he did not have a beach tag. The incident involving 28-year-old Liam Mahoney, a surfer visiting from Junction City, California, was captured in a two-minute video that has since gone viral on social media.
The video shows Mahoney being confronted by police before they aggressively tackle him to the ground. Mahoney, wearing a wetsuit, is seen arguing with the officers and claiming he had a beach badge on his bag, which is required for accessing Belmar beaches from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Less than a minute into the video, the situation escalates as the officers physically restrain Mahoney, with one even putting him in a chokehold before tackling him to the ground. Bystanders can be heard in the background, criticizing the officers for their actions and demanding they release Mahoney.
The incident has sparked outrage, with many condemning the police for what they perceive as excessive force. Belmar Police have stated that Mahoney was charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, obstruction of justice, and issued a borough ordinance for not having a beach badge.
Responses on social media have been overwhelmingly negative, with calls for police accountability and de-escalation training. The Belmar Police have assured the public that a thorough review of the incident will be conducted in accordance with the guidelines set by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.
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Surfer in Belmar, New Jersey Arrested for Not Displaying Beach Badge on Wetsuit by u/tillthenextlife in surfing