NJ A1264

Creates a new third-degree crime of "gang shoplifting" when a person acts in concert with one or more others to openly and conspicuously steal merchandise or tamper with/damage property at a retail store

Requires a mandatory minimum prison sentence of at least one year without parole eligibility for those convicted of gang shoplifting

Third-degree crimes in New Jersey carry penalties of 3-5 years imprisonment, fines up to $15,000, or both

Prohibits merger of gang shoplifting convictions with other criminal offense convictions, meaning sentences must be served separately

Targets organized "flash mob" style retail theft where groups openly loot stores together