ACLU-NJ Sends Letter to Bellmawr Police Department Raising Constitutional Concerns About Targeted Policing of Protesters

NEWARK – The ACLU of New Jersey today sent a letter to the Bellmawr Police Department raising constitutional concerns about a reported pattern of policing targeting people who are protesting and engaging in protected speech activity. The letter urges the Bellmawr Police Department to investigate the conduct of its officers to ensure they are not engaged in unlawful policing practices.

“Everyone has the right to assemble and protest in public spaces,” said Rebecca Uwakwe, director of criminal law reform advocacy at the ACLU of New Jersey. “The government cannot punish motorists for honking in support of a protest or issue citations because it finds the ideas being expressed offensive or disagreeable. We’re urging the Bellmawr Police Department to ensure they are protecting and supporting those who exercise their free speech rights.”

The letter follows numerous accounts from Bellmawr community members detailing how local police officers have repeatedly issued traffic and criminal citations to protesters and passers-by during lawful roadside rallies.

The right to assemble, particularly in a public forum, is entitled to the highest degree of constitutional protection. Targeting participants and supporters of lawful protests with citations interferes with constitutionally protected activity and violates civil rights.