EDISON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy signed a bipartisan bill into law on Wednesday, creating new burglary classifications with stricter penalties for home invasions and residential burglaries. The legislation, S3006/A4299, establishes first-degree and second-degree crimes for these offenses, aiming to deter criminal activity and protect residents.
But will it work? Will liberal prosecutors across New Jersey actually hold these perpetrators accountable, and will they be released before trial according to New Jersey’s bail reform?
Nothing in the bill requires them to be held until trial.
“The safety and well-being of New Jerseyans is our Administration’s highest priority,” Murphy said. “Today’s bipartisan legislation ensures that the penalties for burglary and home invasion reflect the severity of these crimes.”
Under the law, home invasion burglary, involving bodily harm or a weapon, is classified as a first-degree crime, carrying a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $200,000. Residential burglary is categorized as a second-degree crime, with penalties of five to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to $150,000.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin highlighted the emotional impact of home invasions, noting, “When that sanctity is violated, it leaves us with an overwhelming feeling of helplessness and vulnerability.”
“The safety and well-being of New Jerseyans is our Administration’s highest priority,” said Governor Murphy. “Today’s 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.”
“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,” said Senate Republican Leader Anthony Bucco. “Now, law enforcement and prosecutors will have the necessary tools to combat the troubling wave of residential home burglaries spreading across the Garden State and ensure safety within our communities. After today, there should be no mistake that if you commit these crimes, you will do time.”
“Citizens have a right to feel safe in their own homes. Making stiffer penalties for burglaries of residences, especially by perpetrators who are also armed with a weapon, will make would-be burglars think twice before committing this very personal and invasive crime,” said Senator Brian Stack.
The legislation passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and takes effect immediately.
