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. It defines a cooperating witness as someone who testifies for the government to aid in prosecuting a crime, which also encompasses 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 specifically for cooperating witnesses. It grants them the right to receive assistance before and during trial to address psychological and practical challenges associated with testifying. The bill also stipulates that cooperating witnesses should receive protective measures throughout the legal process and establishes court procedures to ensure their safety while testifying. Overall, this legislation seeks to bolster the support and protection available to individuals who assist in the prosecution of crimes.

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