Watch CBS News

N.J. Lawmakers Push For Stricter Penalties For Convicted Burglars

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - A recent wave of home robberies in central New Jersey has politicians calling for stiffer penalties for convicted burglars.

For years, the New Jersey Assembly has been trying to increase penalties for home burglaries from 3rd degree to 2nd degree, meaning 5-10 years behind bars, WCBS 880's Jim Smith reported. But each time, it's stalled in the Senate.

N.J. Lawmakers Push For Stricter Penalties For Convicted Burglars

Republican Assemblyman Jon Bramnick is among those introducing legislation to try and cracked won.

"We've put people who break into people's homes and put residents in fear should go to jail. Right now you can be convicted of a third degree and do no time what so ever," he said.

Bramnick got involved following a 2012 home invasion in Milburn that was caught on a nanny cam.

His bill would also push home invasion up to a first-degree crime.

But a for why it stalled in the Senate, Bramnick only said N.J. politics are tough.

You Might Also Be Interested In:

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.