New Jersey Assembly Bill A2640

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Establishes crime of impersonating uniformed professional to further criminal activity.

Impact

If enacted, A2640 will amend existing legislation by adding the new criminal offense of impersonation of a uniformed professional to Title 2C. Notably, the bill ensures that a conviction for impersonation does not merge with any underlying offense related to the crime committed, meaning that an individual could face sentences for both charges. This provision may serve as a strong deterrent against the impersonation of uniformed personnel, contributing positively to public safety and the integrity of professions requiring uniforms.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2640 proposes a new crime of impersonating a uniformed professional to further criminal activity. This bill aims to address the growing concerns surrounding the misuse of uniforms and vehicles that belong to legitimate public or private employees by individuals committing or threatening to commit a crime under Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes. The bill underscores the seriousness of this offense by classifying it based on the severity of the underlying crime, which can elevate the charge to a higher degree depending on the nature of the offense committed while impersonating another. For instance, if the underlying offense is a first-degree crime, the impersonation offense is also treated as a first-degree crime, potentially resulting in significant prison time ranging from 15 to 30 years.

Contention

The motivation for introducing A2640 stems notably from a tragic incident in which U.S. District Judge Esther Salas' family was attacked by an individual impersonating a delivery driver. The incident highlighted the potential dangers of such impersonations, signaling the need for stronger legal measures to protect individuals from similar threats. While supporters of the bill argue that it is an essential step towards enhancing public safety and holding offenders accountable, there may be discussions around how broadly the law could be applied and the implications for individuals innocently wearing uniforms for non-criminal purposes.