New Jersey Couple Charged With Child Endangerment For Hosting Party In Violation To Coronavirus Order

A New Jersey couple was charged with child endangerment after violating a state order against large gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic. The couple had hosted a party of about 50 people at their home.

Eliezer Silber, 37, and Miriam Silber, 34, were arrested Monday in Lakewood, New Jersey, for the reported party they held on Sunday. The couple faces five counts of child endangerment, reflecting the number of kids they had, and violating a rule or regulation adopted by a governor.

“My office will prosecute any individual who defies or breaks the law, State of Emergency or otherwise,” Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer told reporters. “Everyone must respect and follow the law.”

Lakewood police said they were called by neighbors that a large group had gathered at one of the homes and was reportedly blocking the road. Responding officers said a large group, which included children, was spread between the road, front lawn, and inside the Silber’s home. The crowd dispersed shortly after police arrived and the couple was taken into custody following a short investigation.

On March 21, Gov. Phil Murphy banned large social gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic. Some in the state have ignored the warnings, prompting police to investigate.

There have been other gatherings in Lakewood, including a wedding on Thursday. Lakewood police Cpt. Gregory Staffordsmith said officers responded to a car accident when they noticed a party tent set up in one of the home’s backyard. Two vans then pulled up with roughly 40 wedding attendees, which meant police had to get the crowd to disperse.

Murphy took to Twitter on Saturday to voice his frustrations about such gatherings.