NJ to Enhance Penalties for Gang Solicitation on School Property
There was a time when gang activity was limited to poverty-stricken areas like the South Side of Chicago or East Los Angeles. Not anymore. Now, while many urban centers, including Atlantic City and Camden are dealing with gang activity, suburbia is seeing its share of gang-related violence, too.
NJ Assemblywoman Nancy F. Muñoz sponsored an anti-gang law that increases the penalties for someone convicted of recruiting someone on school property to join or participate in gang activity. The bill, which cleared the NJ Assembly Budget Committee, (A-2114/S-1479), makes the crime of gang solicitation or recruitment a third degree crime if it’s done on school property. (It is currently a fourth degree crime.)
- If convicted of a third degree crime, the defendant is facing three to five years in jail and/or up to $15,000 in fines.
- A fourth degree crime will land someone in jail for 18 months with a possible $10,000 fine, as well.
“Our children deserve to attend school without fear of being threatened and coerced by gang members,” said Assemblywoman Muñoz, in a statement.
New Jersey would be the fourth state to pass a law making it a crime to specifically conduct gang recruitment on school properties. Illinois, Indiana and Maryland have similar laws in place.
If you or someone you love is facing any type of criminal charges in Atlantic City or anywhere in New Jersey, don’t go it alone. John Tumelty is an experienced criminal defense lawyer who will fight for your rights and freedom. Call today for a free consultation about your charges.
