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NJ A4363

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/19/2026

Primary Sponsor

Alex Sauickie

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Redefines riot as a violent public disturbance involving 3 or more persons (reduced from 5) acting with common intent, resulting in injury, property damage, or imminent danger of either

  • Creates new crime of "aggravated riot" as a second-degree offense when involving 25+ participants, causing serious bodily injury, property damage exceeding $5,000, use of deadly weapons, or endangering vehicle movement on public roads

  • Establishes mandatory pretrial detention for persons arrested for riot-related offenses and imposes a mandatory 6-month imprisonment for assaulting law enforcement, firefighters, or emergency personnel during a riot

  • Creates third-degree crime of "inciting a riot" and second-degree "aggravated inciting" when incitement results in serious bodily harm, property damage over $5,000, or supplying/teaching use of deadly weapons

  • Expands criminal mischief to include damage to memorials and historic properties, with mandatory restitution for full repair or replacement costs when damage exceeds $200

Legislative Description

Creates "Punishing Rioters and Protecting Communities Act," broadens riot; enhances penalties certain riot-related criminal penalties; creates crimes of mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication; establishes duty in municipality to permit law enforcement to respond appropriately.

Public Safety and Preparedness

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee

2/19/2026

Committee Referrals

Public Safety and Preparedness Committee2/19/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available