This bill aims to enhance penalties for identity theft offenses when the victim is a senior citizen or a veteran. It amends N.J.S.2C:21-17 to classify identity theft crimes involving these vulnerable groups at a higher degree than similar offenses against other individuals. Specifically, if the victim is a senior citizen or veteran and the offense involves less than $500, a first offense would be classified as a third-degree crime instead of a fourth-degree crime, while subsequent offenses would escalate to a second-degree crime. Additionally, for offenses involving two to five victims or benefits between $500 and $75,000, the crime would be classified as second-degree if any victim is a senior citizen or veteran. For offenses involving more than five victims or benefits of $75,000 or more, the crime would be classified as first-degree if any victim falls into these categories.

The bill also increases penalties for trafficking in personal identifying information when such information is obtained from facilities that serve seniors or veterans. For instance, if a single piece of information is obtained from a continuing care retirement community or similar facility, it would be classified as a third-degree crime instead of a fourth-degree crime. If 20 or more pieces of information are involved, the crime would be classified as second-degree rather than third-degree, and for 50 or more pieces, it would escalate to first-degree instead of second-degree. The bill includes definitions for "senior citizen," "veteran," and various types of facilities, ensuring clarity in the application of these enhanced penalties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:21-17.3