Crime & Safety

NJ Town Adds Fences, Drones, More Police For July 4 Fireworks After "Recent Disturbances" Involving Juveniles

The town is set to have a parade at noon on June 28, followed by fireworks at dusk at Maple Shade High School.

June 23, 2025

Citing "troubling trends" related to groups of unsupervised young people at public events, Maple Shade, New Jersey, is planning extra security for its Independence Day fireworks celebration next Saturday — including an increased police presence, surveillance cameras and drones, and fencing around the event area.

Find out what's happening in Moorestownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Maple Shade Police Chief Christopher Fletcher sent a letter to the Burlington County community on Friday explaining the changes for the 2025 celebration. The town is set to have a parade at noon on June 28, followed by fireworks at dusk at Maple Shade High School.

"The area surrounding Maple Shade High School will be fenced, with clearly marked entry points for all guests. Backpacks and face coverings will not be permitted inside the fenced area, as these items have been commonly used in recent disturbances throughout the region," Fletcher said.

Find out what's happening in Moorestownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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