This bill aims to enhance the penalties for cyber-harassment directed at public servants and their family members by reclassifying such offenses as third-degree crimes. Currently, cyber-harassment is classified as a fourth-degree crime, except in cases where the offender is 21 years or older and impersonates a minor to harass another minor. The proposed legislation expands the definition of cyber-harassment to include offenses against public servants, which encompasses elected officials, appointed individuals, and employees of public entities. Additionally, the bill allows for the inference of intent to harass when actions are directed towards any public servant, rather than just judicial officers.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Office of Cyber-Harassment Support within the Division of Violence Intervention and Victim Assistance in the Department of Law and Public Safety. This office is tasked with promoting education and awareness about cyber-harassment, assisting victims, and implementing initiatives to prevent such harassment, particularly against public servants and their families. The office will engage with various stakeholders, create accessible reporting systems for victims, and provide educational programs to raise awareness about the consequences of cyber-harassment. The bill also includes provisions for funding the office's activities through appropriations from the General Fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-4.1