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 absence of a conviction for the underlying human trafficking offense does not preclude the defendant from asserting this affirmative defense.

Additionally, the bill modifies the legal language surrounding the prosecution of human trafficking and related offenses, ensuring that victims are not penalized for crimes committed under duress or as a result of their victimization. This includes provisions for restitution to victims and the establishment of fines that contribute to the "Human Trafficking Survivor's Assistance Fund." Overall, the bill aims to provide legal protections for victims of human trafficking, recognizing their circumstances in the context of criminal liability.

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