The proposed bill significantly amends New Jersey's laws concerning riots and related offenses by broadening the definition of a riot and introducing enhanced penalties for crimes committed during such disturbances. It defines a riot as a violent public disturbance involving three or more individuals with a common intent to engage in disorderly conduct, leading to injury or property damage. The bill introduces the concept of "aggravated riot," which applies to larger groups or significant harm, and establishes new offenses for inciting a riot and aggravated inciting a riot, each carrying specific penalties. Additionally, it mandates that individuals arrested for riot-related offenses must be held in custody until a pretrial detention hearing, while ensuring that constitutionally protected activities, such as peaceful protests, remain unaffected.

Moreover, the bill amends various sections of New Jersey's criminal code, particularly addressing criminal mischief, burglary, and theft, with a focus on offenses occurring during riots or emergencies. It introduces penalties for criminal mischief involving the defacement of memorials or historic properties, and specifies that burglary committed during a riot is classified as a second-degree crime. The legislation also enhances the grading of theft offenses in sensitive contexts, categorizing them as second-degree crimes under certain conditions. Additionally, it establishes new offenses like mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication, while amending public entity liability laws to ensure municipalities can effectively manage law enforcement responses during civil unrest. Overall, the bill aims to bolster public safety and accountability while providing clearer definitions and guidelines for enforcement.