NJ A361

Motor vehicle theft is upgraded from a third-degree crime to a second-degree crime, increasing maximum imprisonment from 3-5 years to 5-10 years and maximum fines from $15,000 to $150,000.

Courts may sentence minors under 18 convicted of motor vehicle theft to home detention programs, with limited exceptions for court appearances, probation and attorney appointments, or other court-approved reasons.

Minors arrested for motor vehicle theft, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle (joyriding), or carjacking must have a court hearing scheduled within 48 hours of arrest.

Existing penalties for motor vehicle theft convictions remain in effect, including fines of $500-$1,000 and discretionary suspension of driving privileges for up to 1 year (first offense), 2 years (second offense), or 10 years (third or subsequent offense).