New Jersey Assembly Bill A1843

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes the authority of the court to order electronic monitoring of certain convicted domestic violence offenders.

Impact

This bill signifies a shift in the state's approach to managing domestic violence offenders by incorporating technology as a monitoring tool. It requires the establishment of a program by the Administrative Office of the Courts, in consultation with the Attorney General, to facilitate continuous satellite-based monitoring of offenders deemed to be at high risk of re-offending. The monitoring will provide both active and passive tracking capabilities, allowing law enforcement to respond effectively to any breach of conditions set by the court. Additionally, the bill allocates $500,000 from the General Fund to support the implementation of this program.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1843 establishes the authority of courts in New Jersey to mandate electronic monitoring for certain convicted domestic violence offenders. The legislation allows judges to impose electronic monitoring as a condition of sentence for defendants found guilty of domestic violence crimes, particularly when a restraining order is in effect. The bill aims to enhance the safety of victims by utilizing GPS technology to ensure that perpetrators do not violate restraining orders or impose threats on their victims during the critical period following a domestic violence incident.

Contention

While proponents of A1843 advocate for the necessity of electronic monitoring to protect domestic violence victims, critics raise concerns about the potential for overreach and the rights of defendants. Detractors worry that electronic monitoring might not fully address the complexities of domestic violence situations and that reliance on technology could lead to false security. The measure's enforcement mechanisms, such as penalties for non-compliance, also spark debate regarding fairness and effectiveness. Ultimately, the bill's passage reflects an increasing recognition of domestic violence as a significant public safety issue that requires innovative legislative solutions.