The bill amends New Jersey laws concerning the possession and trafficking of stolen property, particularly focusing on altered property and the sale of stolen domestic companion animals. It establishes that dealers who knowingly possess property with altered identifying features are guilty of possession of altered property and defines the crime of dealing in stolen property, including trafficking via online platforms. The bill categorizes dealing in stolen domestic companion animals as a third-degree crime and outlines defenses for individuals accused under these provisions, such as lack of awareness of the property being stolen. Additionally, it makes it a disorderly persons offense to assist in the sale of stolen property through various means, including online platforms, and introduces presumptions for prosecutions based on sale prices significantly below market value.

Moreover, the bill enhances penalties and enforcement measures related to shoplifting and organized retail theft, establishing that assault by auto or vessel is a third-degree crime if bodily injury occurs near school crossings, with ignorance of the presence of juveniles or school property not being a valid defense. It introduces stricter penalties for shoplifting based on merchandise value, mandates community service for offenders, and allows for extended imprisonment for repeat offenders. The bill also requires the Attorney General to combat organized retail theft through a dedicated task force and outlines responsibilities for law enforcement in reporting and prosecuting retail theft incidents. Additionally, it establishes regulations for the sale of gift cards to protect consumers from scams, imposing civil penalties for violations and requiring retailers to display warnings about potential risks.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:20-7.1, 2C:20-11.2, 54:52-9, 54:52-15, 56:8-110.1
Advance Law: 2C:20-7.1, 2C:20-11.2, 54:52-9, 54:52-15, 56:8-110.1
Pamphlet Law: 2C:20-7.1, 54:52-9, 54:52-15, 56:8-110.1