Bodycam video shows Belmar surfer arrested on Jersey Shore beach

BELLA, NJ – Belmar police released bodycam video of the arrest of a surfer on the New Jersey shore after it caused a stir among beachgoers.

The department made the announcement after videos of beachgoers observing the police operation gained traction on social media and raises questions about the officer’s actions.

Video shows 28-year-old Liam Mahoney being forced to the ground after being asked whether or not he had a required beach pass. Other beachgoers on camera appeared shocked as the situation escalated.

“This is crazy, get away from him,” one beachgoer is heard saying.

While the arrest is under review, Belmar police said bodycam video shows what led up to the moment that caught people's attention.

Bodycam provides “some additional context,” says police chief

“I would like to provide the public with some additional information regarding the arrest that occurred on Tuesday, August 20th at Belmar Beach,” Belmar Police Chief Tina Scott said in a Facebook post accompanying the bodycam video.

“Over the course of the week, officers received several complaints of surfers illegally entering the beach over the dunes. The gatekeepers asked these surfers to show their beach passes, but their requests were ignored. On that day, officers assigned to the beach area conducted a check of daily and seasonal passes.”

“The body-worn camera recording shows that the offender, later identified as Liam Mahoney, was approached by officers during this stop. When asked for his badge, he responded, 'I don't need one.' Officer Braswell then pointed out the specific state and local laws that require Mr. Mahoney to wear a badge and that he is not exempt. Officer Braswell then asked Mr. Mahoney for his identification in order to issue him a citation. Mr. Mahoney again refused to provide his information and walked away.”

In the video, the officer says, “You are not allowed to leave,” but Mahoney keeps walking. The officer follows him and arrests him. Mahoney says, “You are arresting me illegally” and asks, “What did I do wrong?” while struggling with two officers.

There is excitement among the observing beachgoers.

The officer then says Mahoney is “still resisting” before forcing him onto the sand, handcuffing him and leading him to a police SUV.

Ultimately, Mahoney was issued a city ordinance and charged with disturbing the peace and resisting arrest. He was not arrested because he did not have a beach tag, Scott said.