New Jersey Senate Bill S4000

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/26/23
• Refer: 6/26/23

Caption

Upgrades penalties for unlawful possession of certain items by incarcerated persons and unlawful provision of certain items to incarcerated persons.

Impact

The changes proposed in S4000 would increase the mandatory minimum term of incarceration for inmates found in possession of escape implements from three years to five years. This effort aims to align the penalties more closely with the broader legal framework governing second degree crimes which generally impose more severe penalties, including longer prison terms and higher fines. Notably, the bill also introduces a third degree crime classification for individuals who provide contraband, other than escape implements, to inmates, which reflects a broader effort to discourage the trafficking of prohibited items into correctional facilities.

Summary

Senate Bill S4000 aims to amend the penalties associated with the unlawful possession and provision of certain items by incarcerated individuals in the state of New Jersey. The bill specifically upgrades the penalties for possessing implements of escape, categorizing any such possession as a crime of the second degree, regardless of whether the item is inherently a weapon or not. This legislative change is in response to concerns about the safety and security mechanisms within correctional facilities and the potential threat posed by such contraband items.

Contention

The discussions surrounding S4000 highlight a divide among lawmakers regarding the balance between public safety and the treatment of incarcerated individuals. Proponents of the bill argue that increasing penalties for contraband possession will deter inmates from attempting to circumvent the law and will enhance overall security in correctional institutions. Critics, however, raise concerns about the harshness of the penalties, suggesting that they may overlook rehabilitative or educational efforts that could better serve the incarcerated population and society at large. This dichotomy presents a significant point of contention in the legislative process for S4000.