Warren County woman charged after officer assaulted at large Vineland party, police say

VINELAND, N.J. (Cumberland County) — A Phillipsburg woman was arrested after allegedly assaulting a police officer during a response to a large, unpermitted party in Vineland that drew several hundred attendees, authorities said.

Officers with the Vineland Police Department were dispatched June 13 to the 2100 block of East Oak Road after receiving reports of loud noise coming from a large gathering.

Upon arrival, police found multiple parking issues and several hundred people attending an unpermitted event at a residence on East Oak Road. Due to the size of the crowd, additional officers were called to the scene.

Police said four vehicles were towed because of traffic violations and numerous motor vehicle summonses were issued.

During the incident, officers arrested Amy R. Smith, 40, of Phillipsburg. Authorities said Smith was charged with aggravated assault on a police officer and resisting arrest after she allegedly struck and bit an officer who was attempting to assist her in receiving medical treatment from Vineland EMS personnel.

Smith was transported to Inspira Medical Center in Vineland and later taken to the Cumberland County Jail pending a court hearing.

The homeowner, Markedia M. Davis, was issued multiple City of Vineland ordinance summonses, including violations related to excessive noise, failure to obtain a permit for the gathering, unlawful distribution of alcohol, food-handling permit violations, littering, failure to establish a traffic plan, maintaining a disorderly household and harboring disorderly persons.

Investigators determined the event had been promoted on social media and that a cover charge was collected by the party promoter.

The incident remains under investigation by the Vineland Police Department, along with the Vineland Fire Department, the Office of the Fire Marshal and the Vineland Health Department. Police said additional ordinance violations could be issued as the investigation continues.

While noting that residents are permitted to host gatherings at their homes, police emphasized that certain large events require permits through the city.

“The City of Vineland Police Department maintains a Zero Tolerance approach to promoted events held on private property or pop-up type parties that affect the quality of life for nearby residents,” the department said.