Edison, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy today signed bipartisan legislation (S3006/A4299) establishing stricter penalties for home invasions and burglaries in New Jersey. The law creates two new distinct categories of burglary with increased penalties, aiming to deter these crimes and enhance public safety.
“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.”
The new law defines home invasion burglary as entering a home with the intent to commit an offense and inflicting bodily injury or being armed with a deadly weapon. This is now a first-degree crime, carrying a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years and a fine of up to $200,000.
Residential burglary applies when a person enters a home with the intent to commit an offense but does not involve injury or a weapon. This is classified as a second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000.
Both offenses fall under the “No Early Release Act,” requiring convicted individuals to serve at least 85% of their sentence before parole eligibility. Additionally, those convicted may be denied professional licenses.
This legislation comes in response to concerns about a rise in home break-ins and robberies across the state. Supporters of the bill highlight its importance in providing law enforcement with the tools to address these crimes and ensuring that offenders face appropriate consequences.
“This new law elevating home invasion burglary to a first-degree crime and residential burglary to a second-degree crime is a powerful step toward ensuring the safety of New Jersey’s residents,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “By increasing the penalties for these serious offenses, we are sending a clear message to criminals that we will not tolerate such brazen acts that violate the sanctity of our homes.”
The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support in the legislature and has been praised by law enforcement officials and community leaders. It is seen as a crucial step in protecting residents and strengthening public safety in New Jersey.
