This bill amends the current law regarding the crime of auto theft in New Jersey, specifically increasing the severity of the crime when it is committed in conjunction with home invasion or residential burglary. Under the proposed changes, auto theft will be classified as a first-degree crime if it occurs during a home invasion burglary, which typically involves bodily injury or the use of a weapon. Additionally, auto theft will be considered a second-degree crime if it is committed in connection with a residential burglary or if the value of the vehicle is $75,000 or more, or if multiple vehicles are involved.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that a conviction for auto theft will not merge with a conviction for home invasion burglary or residential burglary for sentencing purposes. This means that individuals convicted of both offenses will face separate penalties. The penalties for these crimes vary, with first-degree crimes carrying a potential prison term of 10 to 20 years, second-degree crimes carrying a term of 5 to 10 years, and third-degree crimes carrying a term of 3 to 5 years. The bill aims to enhance the legal consequences for auto theft when it is linked to more serious offenses, thereby addressing the severity of such crimes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:20-10.1