New Jersey now has tougher penalties for those convicted of home invasion and residential burglary.
Gov. Phil Murphy has signed a law that would increase penalties for burglary to first and second degree crimes in the state.
Home invasion burglary will be elevated to a first degree crime and residential burglary to a second degree crime.
“The safety and well-being of New Jerseyans is our administration’s highest priority,” Murphy said. “(The) bipartisan legislation ensures that the penalties for burglary and home invasion reflect the severity of these crimes and deter individuals from entering a home illegally. We are grateful to the Legislature, our law enforcement community, local mayors, and community members for supporting our shared goal of keeping New Jersey residents safe.”
Home invasion refers to when a person enters a home to inflict bodily harm or is armed with a deadly weapon regardless of whether or not it’s used. Now, it’s a crime that is punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 to 20 years, a fine of up to $200,000 or both.
Residential burglary refers to when a person enters a home to commit an offense and is punishable by imprisonment of 5 to 10 years with a fine up to $150,000 or both.
“Our home is our sanctuary, holding the things we value most and the people we love most,” said Attorney General Matthew Platkin. “When that sanctity is violated and that feeling of security is shattered, it leaves us with an overwhelming feeling of helplessness and vulnerability.”
The No Early Release Act, which requires someone to serve 85% of their incarceration term before being eligible for parole, will apply to the burglary penalties. The governor’s office also indicated that people convicted of the crimes could be denied a professional license.
It was bipartisan legislation (S3006) from state Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco, R-Morris; Sen. Brian Stack, D-Union; and Sen. Vin Gopal, D-Monmouth.
“With the governor’s signature, New Jersey is sending a strong and clear message that individuals who burglarize homes or engage in other associated criminal activities will face severe consequences,” Bucco said.
The increase in penalties came in the wake of a high-profile death of detective Sergeant Monica Mosley in a home invasion.
“This legislation will enhance the protections afforded our citizens of this great state and we believe will deter criminal activity,” said Fraternal Order of Police President Robert Fox. “This law will strengthen our ability to protect the people we serve and ensure those who commit such heinous acts are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
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Jelani Gibson may be reached at jgibson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X at @jelanigibson1 and on LinkedIn.