This bill aims to enhance the penalties for cyber-harassment directed at public servants and their family members by reclassifying such offenses as a third-degree crime. Under current law, cyber-harassment is generally classified as a fourth-degree crime, with an exception for individuals over 21 who impersonate a minor to harass another minor. The proposed legislation expands the criteria for third-degree classification to include offenses against public servants, which are defined broadly to encompass elected officials, appointed individuals, and employees of public entities, among others. 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 on cyber ethics in schools. The bill also includes provisions for funding the office's activities through appropriations from the General Fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-4.1