This bill seeks to enhance penalties for motor vehicle theft and related offenses for both juveniles and adults. It introduces mandatory minimum sentences, requiring first-time adult offenders to serve a minimum of 180 days in prison, while repeat offenders face a minimum of one year without the possibility of parole. For juveniles, the bill establishes specific incarceration terms based on the number of offenses, starting with 30 days for first-time offenders and escalating to six months for third or subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill allows for community service and rehabilitative measures for juveniles, emphasizing accountability and community protection.

A significant change introduced by this bill is the prohibition of courts from ordering restitution for juveniles adjudicated delinquent for motor vehicle theft-related offenses, which differs from current law. The legislation also imposes strict penalties on adults who use minors to commit these crimes, mandating minimum sentences of six months to one year for first offenses and five years for repeat offenses. This response comes in light of a notable increase in car thefts in New Jersey, reflecting a broader national trend.

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