Establishes penalty for withholding identification to hinder apprehension or prosecution.
Impact
The bill's amendments to N.J.S.2C:29-3 would impose similar penalties on those who withhold identification as they would face for providing false information to law enforcement. This change means that those found guilty of this act would be subject to significant criminal penalties, which could include imprisonment and monetary fines. Specifically, the act outlines various degrees of crimes associated with the offenses of hindering and includes the current penalties under New Jersey law, like imprisonment for third degree and fourth degree crimes.
Summary
Senate Bill S3483 seeks to amend New Jersey's law regarding hindering apprehension or prosecution, specifically addressing the act of withholding identification. The bill stipulates that if a person refuses to provide valid identification or their true identity when requested by law enforcement upon arrest, they are hindering their own apprehension and prosecution. This change is aimed at strengthening law enforcement's ability to enforce the law effectively and ensuring that individuals cannot evade legal accountability simply by withholding their identity.
Contention
Discussions surrounding the bill may reveal points of contention regarding the balance between law enforcement interests and individual rights. Opponents might argue that increasing penalties for withholding identification could lead to disproportionate consequences for individuals, particularly among marginalized communities. Supporters, on the other hand, would likely contend that these changes are necessary to prevent individuals from obstructing justice, thereby strengthening public safety and law enforcement efficacy.
Broadens riot; enhances penalties for certain crimes committed during riot; creates new crimes of mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication; establishes duty in municipality to permit law enforcement to respond appropriately.
Broadens riot; enhances penalties for certain crimes committed during riot; creates new crimes of mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication; establishes duty in municipality to permit law enforcement to respond appropriately.