This bill seeks to strengthen protections for public servants by enhancing penalties for threats against them and establishing the crime of doxxing. It amends existing laws to create a permanent restraining order process for victims of crimes such as stalking and threats against public servants, allowing for these orders to be enforced statewide. The legislation clarifies definitions of key terms, including "immediate family member" and "public servant," and outlines procedures for law enforcement to seize weapons in cases of threats against public officials. Specifically, threats directed at judicial officers or prosecutors are categorized as a second-degree crime, with harsher penalties if they occur near the victim's residence.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language that criminalizes doxxing, defined as the unauthorized disclosure of a covered person's home address or unpublished telephone number with the intent to harass. Violations are classified as a fourth-degree crime for reckless actions or a third-degree crime for purposeful actions. The legislation also expands penalties for the improper use of personal identifying information, addressing harassment that exploits such information. Overall, the bill aims to provide greater protection for public servants and their families while imposing stricter consequences for those who threaten or misuse personal information.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:12-10.1, 2C:20-31.1, 2C:39-7