May 17, 2008
Ocean City closer to decriminalizing open containers
The Ocean City Town Council has voted to decriminalize open container violations.
The vote on first reading was 6-1, with Councilwoman Margaret Pillas casting the lone dissenting vote, the Salisbury Daily Times reported. A final vote is expected in two weeks.
If the measure becomes law, a violation would no longer be an arrestable offense. Instead, violators would get a citation and a $200 fine. If paid within 48 hours, the fine would be reduced to $100.
In voting against the measure, Pillas cited letters of opposition sent by Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino and the Worcester County States Attorneys Office.
Pillas argued the existing laws help prevent crime and are not a form of harassment by police officers.
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