This bill amends the existing Sexual Assault Victims Bill of Rights in New Jersey to enhance the rights of sexual assault victims regarding notifications about their cases. It establishes the right for victims to be informed about critical developments, including whether a DNA profile of the assailant was obtained, if it has been entered into a data bank, and if there is a match with any existing profiles. Additionally, the bill mandates that law enforcement agencies inform victims about the status of evidence processing upon request and allows victims to designate another person to receive this information on their behalf.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication from law enforcement to victims regarding significant changes in their case. It ensures that victims are kept informed without compromising ongoing investigations and clarifies that the failure to provide such notifications does not affect the validity of a conviction or sentence. Overall, this legislation aims to empower sexual assault victims by ensuring they are kept in the loop about developments in their cases, thereby enhancing their rights and support within the criminal justice system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:4B-60.2