This bill amends the current law regarding the crime of auto theft in New Jersey, specifically 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. The bill also clarifies that a conviction for auto theft will not merge with a conviction for home invasion or residential burglary for sentencing purposes.

The bill introduces several key insertions into the law, including the definition of auto theft as a first-degree crime when associated with home invasion burglary and as a second-degree crime when linked to residential burglary. It also specifies that auto theft will be classified as a third-degree crime in other circumstances. Furthermore, the bill states that an act is considered to be in the course of committing an offense if it occurs during the attempt or immediate flight after the commission of the offense. The proposed changes aim to enhance penalties for auto theft in serious criminal contexts, thereby addressing public safety concerns.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:20-10.1