S.2503

New Jersey S2503 increases penalties for purposely desecrating public monuments, insignia, symbols, structures, places of worship, or burials.

New Jersey S2503 amends the state's criminal code to elevate the offense of purposely desecrating public monuments, insignia, symbols, structures, places of worship, or burials from a disorderly persons offense to a crime of the fourth degree. The bill defines desecration as defacing, damaging, or polluting. A fourth degree crime carries potential penalties of up to 18 months imprisonment, a $10,000 fine, or both, which are more severe than the penalties for a disorderly persons offense, which include up to six months imprisonment, a $1,000 fine, or both.