This bill amends the current law regarding pretrial release by eliminating the presumption of pretrial release for defendants charged with sex offenses involving victims who are minors. Under the existing Criminal Justice Reform Law, there is a presumption for pretrial release for eligible defendants, except in certain serious cases such as murder or specific theft offenses. The proposed changes expand the list of offenses that do not benefit from this presumption to include sex offenses as defined under Megan's Law when the victim is under 18 years of age.

The bill aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals charged with serious offenses against minors are not automatically granted pretrial release. This change reflects a growing concern for the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly children, in the criminal justice system. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:162-17