Westfield Police Brace For 'Big Group Gathering' At Mindowaskin Park

WESTFIELD, NJ — According to Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro, a "Big Group Gathering" — which is being promoted on Snapchat — is planned for Mindowaskin Park on Friday at 7 p.m.

Battiloro warned the community on Thursday night that all of Westfield's parks are under the jurisdiction and control of the Town Council and Recreation Commission. He said no such event or gathering has been approved by either authority.

The use of Mindowaskin Park for any sort of event required the issuance of a written permit as a condition of its use, according the town. Mindowaskin Park, like most other Westtfield parks, also closes at dusk.

Battiloro stated that all applicable laws, ordinances and rules relating to the use of Mindowaskin Park will be fully enforced. He strongly encourages parents to ask about their children's whereabouts during the evening hours of Friday, June 17.

Police will be present at the park Friday night to deter the occurrence of any unauthorized gathering, and those who fail to comply with police direction will be subject to law enforcement action.

Additionally, the Downtown Westfield Quality of Life Unit will be fully deployed to deter any related mass gatherings downtown.

Following the recent assault of a 15-year-old boy downtown last Saturday, Battiloro said the recent widespread disorderly conduct of minors occurring in downtown Westfield will "not be tolerated."

Read more: Update On Teen Who Was Assaulted, Robbed In Downtown Westfield

"Incidents like the one that occurred on Saturday will be thoroughly investigated and identified suspects will be criminally charged," the town wrote in a statement.

In similar news, several "pop-up parties" have caused a stir in South Jersey towns like Point Pleasant Beach and Long Branch in recent weeks. Read more: Long Branch, Point Beach Still Bracing For June Mass Parties

These parties have been circulating on TikTok and other social media outlets, and police in these beach towns are preparing for mass crowds. The Point Pleasant Beach mayor has said these parties have caused damage in towns and created chaos.

Read more: Point Beach Mayor Blasts Pop-Up Party 'Idiots,' State's Response

Westfield residents are reminded to immediately call the Westfield Police Department if they witness any wrongdoing.