Requires jury, rather than court, to determine whether certain defendants are persistent offenders.
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed General Assembly
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill changes how New Jersey determines if a defendant is a ‘persistent offender,’ which can lead to a longer prison sentence. Currently, a judge decides this based on prosecutor’s application. This bill requires a jury to make that determination after a guilty verdict, aligning with recent rulings by the U.S. and New Jersey Supreme Courts. The jury must unanimously agree that the defendant’s prior offenses meet the criteria for being considered a persistent offender.
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