Cranford Meeting Interrupted as Former Candidate Removed by Police

A Cranford Township Committee meeting was paused twice on July 7 following public comment disruptions that resulted in the arrest of a former municipal candidate.

Former Democratic primary candidate William "Will" Thilly was removed from the chamber after exceeding his five minute public comment limit and using a portable sound system. As reported by Union County Life, police charged Thilly with aggravated assault on an officer, disrupting a public meeting, resisting arrest, and obstruction after an officer sustained a knee injury during his removal.

The public comment session included multiple disruptions, including an individual carrying a novelty prop and singing during their allotment. Following Thilly's refusal to step down, Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty issued multiple warnings before the committee voted to recess the session.

Mayor Miller Prunty noted following the meeting that while residents maintain the right to speak, continuous disruptions impair municipal operations and public participation. Police Chief Matthew Nazzaro confirmed officers will intervene when meeting conduct violates township guidelines.

Stay connected with local municipal news and Cranford government updates by visiting unioncountylife.com.

FAQ

Who was arrested during the Cranford Township Committee meeting?

William "Will" Thilly, a former Cranford Township Committee candidate and local resident, was arrested by Cranford police following a public comment disruption.

Why was the Cranford Township Committee meeting recessed?

Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty and the Township Committee called a recess after a speaker refused to yield the floor and continued using an unpermitted portable speaker after his five minute limit expired.

What charges were filed following the Cranford meeting disruption?

Police charged William Thilly with aggravated assault on a police officer, disrupting a public meeting, resisting arrest, and obstructing the administration of law.