This bill amends Section 5 of P.L.2014, c.31 (C.2A:162-19) to allow prosecutors to file motions for pretrial detention of eligible defendants who violate protective orders issued under the "Victim's Assistance and Survivor Protection Act" (VASPA). Previously, prosecutors could only seek pretrial detention for contempt violations under the "Prevention of Domestic Violence Act" (PDVA). The new provision specifically includes contempt violations under VASPA, categorizing such violations as a crime of the fourth degree if they could also constitute a crime or disorderly persons offense.

The bill establishes that when a motion for pretrial detention is filed for a contempt violation of VASPA, there will be a rebuttable presumption that the defendant should be detained pending trial. This change aims to enhance the legal framework for protecting victims under VASPA by ensuring that violations of protective orders can lead to pretrial detention, similar to the existing provisions under PDVA. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:162-19