A Budd Lake man was arrested Tuesday night after allegedly causing a disturbance by repeatedly driving through the restricted parking lot of the Mount Olive Township Police Department, honking his horn and yelling out of his vehicle.
The incident took place on May 27, 2025, around 8:11 p.m., when officers observed a car entering the secure area of the department’s lot. The driver, later identified as 21-year-old Zachary Petzinger, reportedly made several passes through the lot while loudly honking and shouting, drawing attention from on-duty officers.
According to police, the area Petzinger entered is clearly marked as restricted, intended only for authorized personnel. Despite the signage and secure nature of the lot, Petzinger ignored warnings and continued to loop through the space in what authorities are calling an act of defiant trespassing.
Confrontation and Arrest
When officers approached the vehicle and stopped Petzinger, he was said to be uncooperative and offered no clear explanation for his behavior. He did not show signs of an emergency or distress that might explain his actions.
Petzinger was placed under arrest without further incident and was later transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he awaits a court appearance. He has been charged with disorderly conduct and defiant trespass, both considered serious offenses under New Jersey law.
According to New Jersey criminal statutes, defiant trespass occurs when an individual knowingly enters or remains in a place where they have no legal right to be after being warned or where signage prohibits entry. Disorderly conduct typically refers to behavior that causes public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm — including making unreasonable noise or creating hazardous conditions (N.J. Code § 2C:18-3).
No Known Motive
Authorities have not disclosed a motive behind Petzinger’s behavior, and there were no reports of property damage or injuries related to the incident. Police confirmed that alcohol or drugs do not appear to have been a factor at this time, although the investigation remains ongoing.
“This type of behavior is taken seriously,” a Mount Olive police spokesperson said. “Restricted zones, especially those around police departments, exist for the safety of the public and our officers. Entering these areas without authorization is not only dangerous but unlawful.”
The Mount Olive Township Police Department, located in Morris County, operates under strict access control procedures for all secure areas to ensure officer and public safety. The department’s policies align with broader state law enforcement standards managed under the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.
Community Concerns
Local residents expressed concern about the incident, noting that such disturbances at a law enforcement facility can raise alarm, especially with recent tensions in various parts of the country between police departments and the public.
“I drive by the station every day. Seeing someone deliberately acting out like that in a secure area is concerning,” said one Mount Olive resident who asked to remain anonymous. “You just never know what could happen.”
Community leaders are urging residents to stay respectful of public safety zones and trust that the police are handling the matter according to due process.
Legal Ramifications Ahead
Petzinger’s charges of disorderly conduct and defiant trespass could carry significant legal consequences. In New Jersey, disorderly persons offenses may result in fines up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. While these are not indictable crimes (felonies), they are criminal offenses and may appear on a permanent record.
His case will be handled in accordance with state procedures and is scheduled for hearing in Morris County Superior Court, although a specific date has not yet been released.
Residents can learn more about how such charges are processed through the New Jersey Courts system.
Key Takeaways:
- Zachary Petzinger, 21, was arrested for allegedly honking and yelling in a restricted police lot.
- He faces charges of disorderly conduct and defiant trespass.
- No motive has been released, and the investigation is ongoing.
- Authorities stress the importance of respecting law enforcement property and security zones.
As the case unfolds, Mount Olive officials are reminding the public to remain alert, respectful, and informed about their legal boundaries — especially when near sensitive or restricted areas.