As promised during the campaign, actions speak louder than words. This is another step of action, helping push Westfield forward.
Today, I am proud to announce that our crime bill A3806 has been introduced in the General Assembly by Assemblywoman Michele Matsikoudis (see bill attached).
The bill, initiated following a letter from me and Councilmen Armento, Domogala, and Kiefer, embodies a proactive approach to tackling crime head-on. A3806 incorporates provisions aimed at deterring criminal activity and safeguarding communities across the state. Key highlights of the bill include:
Establishment of a rebuttable presumption of pretrial detention for motor vehicle theft offenses.
Enhancement of penalties for motor vehicle theft offenses, elevating them to second-degree crimes regardless of the value of the vehicle.
Inclusion of motor vehicle theft offenses in the code allowing courts to revoke offenders' driving privileges.
Authorization for the court to order home detention for offenders under 18 years old, in addition to other penalties.
Creation of the Grants for Underage Auto-Theft Risk Deterrence ("GUARD") Program, a $7 million initiative to support community-based organizations in deterring youth from criminal activities.
Additionally, we acknowledge the Town Council’s upcoming vote on a resolution at Tuesday night's council meeting urging Governor Murphy and the New Jersey Legislature to act on addressing the rise in car thefts. Together, we appreciate the mayor finally recognizing that there has indeed been an increase in attempted car thefts in town after previously downplaying the severity of the problem and thank her for following our lead in speaking out about the rise in crime.
The introduction of the crime bill A3806 marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts to create a safer Westfield for everyone.
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