When most people go on vacation, they don't take the time to learn the ins and outs of the legal system in the jurisdiction where they're vacationing. Unless there is a particular legal concern that an individual has – say, they want to know the accessibility requirements in a particular location because their child uses a wheelchair – it is rare for anyone to research local laws before setting off on an adventure. While this is a reasonable reality, it can sometimes come back to bite tourists who are less than fully informed.

With that said, even knowledgeable tourists can find themselves targeted by law enforcement for alleged wrongdoing. As a Californian who recently went surfing at a New Jersey beach found out, even being prepared can't necessarily insulate you from run-ins with the law.

If you are a tourist and are facing legal trouble or have questions about your rights in New Jersey, don't hesitate to reach out about your case today by calling 888-535-3686 or by contacting the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team online.

Viral Arrest Video Shocks New Jersey Beachgoers

In a video shared more than 1,000 times on Facebook alone, the arrest of a Junction City, California surfer was caught on tape. The surfer was taken into custody at Belmar Beach on the Jersey Shore. As the video begins, the surfer – who is being restrained by two men – is telling officers, “I have my badge right there.” The badge he is referring to is a beach badge, which has been affixed to his bag. The officers' initial concern, it seems, is that it was not affixed to his wetsuit. The borough website does not specify where badges must be displayed.

During the course of the arrest, the man – who is not visibly resisting arrest – is placed in a chokehold and then thrown face-first into the sand. The surfer was ultimately issued a ticket for not possessing a beach badge and was charged with resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and obstruction of justice. After bodycam footage of the events leading up to the incident was released, the Belmar Police Department stood by its decision to take the surfer into custody, allegedly for refusing to provide officers with identification. However, it is worth noting that in the footage, the only instruction that the surfer failed to follow was a direction to drop his board.

Legal Assistance Is Available for Tourists

There are seemingly endless circumstances under which tourists can be justifiably and unjustifiably arrested, regardless of whether they know the local law or not. It certainly seems that even though the Belmar Police Department stands by its actions, the tourist who was so forcefully arrested last month has strong grounds upon which to build a defense.

If you or a loved one is a tourist who has run-in with New Jersey law enforcement officers, know that the respected Criminal Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help you to safeguard your interests as your case evolves. If we cannot reach a resolution to your situation amicably, we are prepared to advocate for your rights aggressively in court.

Given the stakes of any arrest-related situation, it's important to craft the strongest defense strategy possible. Contact us about your case today by calling 888-535-3686 or by reaching out online. There is no time to waste.