Gopal Looks to Upgrade Crime of Theft of $500,000 or More

TRENTON – Senator Vin Gopal introduced a bill that would upgrade the crime of theft if the amount involved is $500,000 or more.

Under the theft statute, the grading of theft ranges from a disorderly persons offense to a crime of the first degree depending on the amount involved, the particular type of property taken and certain other circumstances.

This bill (S2519) would create a new crime in the first degree for theft of property in the amount of $500,000 or more. Under the bill, theft would remain a crime in the second degree if the amount involved is at least $75,000 but less than $500,000.

“We need to send a clear message that theft will not be tolerated,” said Senator Vin Gopal.

“Theft in this amount is egregious and warrants the punishment that accompanies a first degree crime. By upgrading the crime of theft in the amount of $500,000 or more, we ensure those criminals will face the appropriate sentencing.”

Theft is currently a crime in the first degree only if the property is human remains that were stolen by deception or falsification of a document under the “Revised Uniform Anatomical Gift Act.” The bill makes technical changes to clarify that theft of human remains by deception or falsification would remain a crime in the first degree.

“This long overdue legislation plugs a loophole that previously allowed individuals who committed high-value thefts to avoid jail time, and often left victims with little justice or vindication,” said Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni.

“With a first degree penalty charge for such thefts, law enforcement can help better represent victims’ rights and interests while deterring others from engaging in similar theft schemes.”