Police Eye Cinnaminson Carnival Amid Unruly Crowds At NJ Events

CINNAMINSON, NJ — With unruly crowds hampering several community gatherings around New Jersey, Cinnaminson police encouraged extra vigilance during this week's carnival.

The St. Charles Borromeo Carnival will feature rides, games and other family entertainment. But the event comes on the heels of several gatherings around New Jersey becoming disorderly, including last weekend's Summer Kick Off in Pennsauken, where six people were arrested.

• Read more: 6 Arrested At Festival Cut Short By Unruly Crowds In Camden Co.: Police

Cinnaminson police are working to ensure that disruptive behavior doesn't spill into this week's event, says Officer-in-charge Cpt. William Obuchowski.

"The Police Department is working closely with St. Charles Carnival representatives as they prepare for this week's carnival and look forward to a very successful event," Obuchowski said via Nixle. "However, due to the recent incidents throughout the area, residents are encouraged to remain attentive, travel in groups and report any concerns to carnival personnel, a police officer or call 9-1-1."

In recent weeks, authorities have reported unrest at several gatherings around the state. During Memorial Day weekend, a teen stabbed and injured a 15-year-old boy during a fight in Ocean City, officials said. Wildwood declared a state of emergency on Memorial Day after a series of incidents that weekend.

On June 1, large crowds broke out into fights during Gloucester Township Day — the township's annual family-friendly gathering. One week later, Pennsauken's Summer Kick Off was cut short due to unruly crowds interfering with the event. The majority of arrestees at both events were teens.

The St. Charles Carnival runs from 6-11 p.m. Monday through Saturday at St. Charles Borromeo (2500 Branch Pike, Cinnaminson). The carnival raises money for the church and its religious-education programs.