NJ A1541

Establishes an 18-month mandatory minimum prison sentence for a second or subsequent offense of using a juvenile to commit automobile theft, during which the defendant is ineligible for parole

Applies to adults (18 years or older) who knowingly use, solicit, direct, hire, or employ a person 17 years or younger to steal automobiles

The underlying offense remains a second-degree crime, generally punishable by 5-10 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $150,000

Mistaken belief about the juvenile's age is not a valid defense, even if the belief was reasonable

Amends P.L.1991, c.81 (C.2C:20-17) to address increasing automobile crimes involving juvenile accomplices in New Jersey