Governor murphy enacts stricter penalties for burglaries

Gloucester Township, NJ – Governor Murphy has signed new legislation increasing penalties for residential burglaries and home invasions in New Jersey. The law, which went into effect immediately, introduces two new offenses: second-degree residential burglary and first-degree home invasion burglary.

The enhanced penalties for home invasion burglary apply when a deadly weapon is used or bodily injury is threatened during a break-in. Convicted individuals could face 10 to 20 years in prison, fines up to $200,000, or both.

Residential burglary involves entering a home to commit an offense, punishable by five to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000. Both offenses fall under the No Early Release Act, requiring offenders to serve at least 85% of their sentence before parole eligibility.

Attorney General Matthew Platkin, at a Newark press conference, highlighted the law’s potential in holding accountable those who use juveniles in burglaries.

Chris Quigley Latest posts

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News