This bill amends existing law to authorize home detention for juveniles who have been adjudicated delinquent for specific motor vehicle offenses, namely theft of a motor vehicle or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle. The court is granted the authority to determine the duration and conditions of the home detention, which cannot exceed 60 days. Additionally, the bill stipulates that juveniles placed on home detention may leave their residence for various approved reasons, such as attending school, participating in after-school activities, employment, counseling, community service, or attending court or probation appointments.

The bill also includes several amendments to the existing law regarding the disposition of delinquency cases. Notably, it introduces new provisions that allow for home detention as a rehabilitative measure while maintaining the court's discretion to impose conditions that support the juvenile's rehabilitation. The bill emphasizes the importance of balancing community protection, accountability, and the development of competencies in juveniles to help them become responsible members of society.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-43