Codey, Bucco to Introduce Bill Combating Motor Vehicle Theft

LIVINGSTON – Senator Richard J. Codey and Senator Anthony Bucco will be holding a press event on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 11:30 AM, to discuss legislation that he will be introducing to help counter the recent surge in car thefts. The press conference will take place at the West Orange Township Council Chambers, 66 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07052.

The bill would increase the penalties for those convicted of motor vehicle theft or receiving a stolen motor vehicle and would subject repeat offenders to the possibility of an extended term. A juvenile who is found to have received a stolen vehicle would have to serve 60 days of community service, and a juvenile who has previously been adjudicated delinquent for a motor vehicle charge would be required to get a minimum 60-day period of incarceration. Additionally, the bill would increase penalties for leaders of auto theft trafficking networks who conspire with others including a juvenile.

Our local communities have been faced with steep increases in car theft since 2020. New Jersey saw a 22% increase in car thefts in 2021, and 2022 numbers are on track to surpass that total. This legislation would provide new tools for law enforcement to keep repeat offenders off the street.