Establishes "MarcAnthony's Law;" criminalizes use of defaced or stolen firearm to injure police officer; enhances penalties for defacing firearm.
If enacted, A2502 would modify existing provisions in the New Jersey Statutes, particularly Title 2C, which governs criminal law. The increased penalties extend to the crime of defacing a firearm, which is upgraded from a third-degree to a second-degree offense. This change would result in harsher penalties of imprisonment ranging from five to ten years and fines up to $150,000 for defacing firearms used in crimes against officers. The bill also specifies circumstances under which a firearm is not deemed defaced, providing clarity for law enforcement and legal proceedings.
Assembly Bill A2502, known as "MarcAnthony's Law," aims to enhance penalties associated with the use of defaced or stolen firearms in crimes against law enforcement officers. The bill stipulates that causing serious bodily injury to a law enforcement officer using a defaced or stolen firearm constitutes a first-degree crime, while causing bodily injury in similar circumstances is classified as a second-degree crime. This legislative measure is a direct response to the tragic events leading to the death of Jersey City Detective MarcAnthony DiNardo, aiming to safeguard officers and deter such crimes.
While advocates for A2502 emphasize the need for stronger deterrents against attacks on law enforcement, opponents may raise concerns about the implications of increasing penalties and the potential for disproportionate sentencing. The bill's specific targeting of firearms-related offenses highlights the ongoing discourse regarding gun control and legislative measures aimed at reducing violence, particularly against police. Stakeholders in this debate include law enforcement advocates and civil rights groups, who may have differing views on the effectiveness and fairness of the proposed enhancements.