Trenton Facebook Group Fractures Over Admin's Controversial Post

Fallout from co-founder's comment highlights challenges of moderating online discourse in hyperlocal communities.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A dispute has fractured the leadership of Trenton Orbit, a popular Facebook group serving as a digital town square for Trenton residents. The controversy began with a comment made by co-founder Bill Kearney on a New Jersey 101.5 Facebook post regarding the arrest of three Trenton men. Kearney's response, 'Happy BH month,' referencing Black History Month, drew immediate and widespread criticism from the Trenton Orbit community. The incident highlights the challenges of moderating online discourse and the potential for personal opinions to impact community platforms.

Why it matters

The Trenton Orbit incident is not an isolated case, as online forums focused on local politics and community issues are increasingly susceptible to internal conflicts and public relations crises. The speed and reach of social media amplify these issues, turning local disagreements into public spectacles that can damage community trust and cohesion.

The details

Kearney, who is also the manager of the Trenton Farmers Market, acknowledged the impulsive nature of his response, stating it was 'more out of anger, and frustration.' The Trenton Farmers Market board of directors subsequently issued a statement distancing itself from Kearney's comments, emphasizing that they 'do not reflect the values or standards' of the market.

  • On February 15, 2026, Kearney made the controversial comment on a New Jersey 101.5 Facebook post.

The players

Bill Kearney

The co-founder of the Trenton Orbit Facebook group and the manager of the Trenton Farmers Market.

Trenton Orbit

A popular Facebook group that serves as a digital town square for Trenton residents.

Trenton Farmers Market

A local market in Trenton, New Jersey, where Kearney serves as the manager.

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What they’re saying

“It was one of those reactions when you type without giving much thought. It was more out of anger, and frustration. Looking at what I wrote, I see why people are upset.”

— Bill Kearney, Co-founder, Trenton Orbit

What’s next

The Trenton Farmers Market board of directors has stated that it will review its policies and procedures to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.

The takeaway

The Trenton Orbit incident highlights the need for online forums to prioritize clear moderation policies, transparent enforcement, community input, and crisis communication plans to effectively manage controversial situations and maintain the trust of their members.