This bill aims to enhance the safety and rights of cooperating witnesses in New Jersey by authorizing the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) to cover expenses related to their safety, including relocation costs for witnesses and their families. It defines a cooperating witness as someone who testifies for the government to aid in prosecuting a crime, which includes confidential informants. Additionally, the bill allows the Division of Criminal Justice to allocate funds from the Victim and Witness Advocacy Fund to public entities and non-profit organizations that provide services aimed at ensuring the safety of these witnesses.

Furthermore, the bill amends the Crime Victims Bill of Rights to expand protections for cooperating witnesses. It grants them the right to receive assistance before and during trial to address the psychological and practical challenges of testifying, as well as protective measures throughout the legal process. The bill mandates that courts establish procedures to ensure the safety of witnesses while they testify, thereby reinforcing their rights and support within the criminal justice system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:4B-12.1, 52:4B-36, 52:4B-43.1