This bill amends the existing law on cyber-harassment in New Jersey, specifically targeting the harassment of minors. It broadens the definition of the crime by lowering the age threshold from 21 to 18 for individuals who engage in cyber-harassment against minors, removing the requirement that the offender must impersonate a minor to be charged with the crime. As a result, individuals aged 18 and older who engage in such behavior will now be guilty of a third-degree crime, which carries penalties of three to five years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for minors adjudicated delinquent for cyber-harassment, allowing courts to mandate participation in training programs aimed at reducing such behavior or raising awareness about its dangers. It also establishes penalties for parents or guardians who fail to comply with court-imposed conditions, classifying them as disorderly persons subject to fines. The bill emphasizes the responsibility of parents in supervising minors and holds them accountable for their children's actions in cases of cyber-harassment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-4.1