This bill amends existing New Jersey law to establish an affirmative defense for individuals charged with any offense under Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, provided they were victims of human trafficking at the time of the alleged crime. Specifically, the defense applies if the defendant can demonstrate that they were a victim of human trafficking and that the offense was committed as a direct result of that victimization. Notably, the bill clarifies that the affirmative defense is available even if the prosecution for the underlying human trafficking offense did not result in a conviction.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions related to human trafficking and related offenses, ensuring that victims are not penalized for crimes committed under duress or coercion stemming from their victimization. The legal language has been updated to reflect these changes, including the insertion of specific criteria for the affirmative defense and the removal of previous limitations on its applicability. This legislative change aims to provide greater protection and support for victims of human trafficking within the criminal justice system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:13-8, 2C:13-9