In a recent statement, Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian had a clear message for parents and teens: "If you don't want to behave, don't come." The mayor's words came after a night of turmoil in Ocean City, where multiple arrests were made, leading to a swift restoration of order on the Boardwalk.

The exact number of arrests made on Saturday night remains unclear, as neither the police department nor a spokesperson could be reached for immediate comment. However, last year, Ocean City issued over 1,000 curbside warnings in a single weekend, reflecting the ongoing struggle to maintain peace in the popular shore town.

In neighboring Seaside Heights, another incident unfolded as unfounded reports of gunshots prompted a mass exodus of teens from the boardwalk. Known for its association with MTV's Jersey Shore, Seaside Heights has responded by implementing a 10 p.m. curfew for teenagers under the age of 18.

The Jersey Shore region as a whole has seen an increase in regulations for teenagers in recent years. Wildwood enforces a midnight curfew, while adjacent North Wildwood opts for a 10 p.m. curfew. North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello acknowledged concerns about large groups of juveniles gathering at night, but stated that the situation had improved in recent years, with a decline in incidents since 2022.

Mayor Gillian expressed understanding for the impact of such disruptive behavior on residents, guests, and business owners, emphasizing that Ocean City will not tolerate such incidents. The mayor urged anyone with information about Saturday night's incident to contact the detective bureau at 609-525-9129.

These episodes highlight the ongoing challenge faced by popular shore towns as they strive to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors alike. The implementation of curfews and intensified police presence are part of ongoing efforts to curb unruly behavior and maintain public order.

As summer continues, authorities will likely remain vigilant in their quest to provide a safe and welcoming experience for all who visit the Jersey Shore.