Elevates the degree of desecration offense based upon the pecuniary loss; adds desecration to bias intimidation statute.

This bill changes how desecration of public monuments, places of worship, or other venerated objects is punished in New Jersey. It creates three penalty tiers based on the financial damage caused: a third-degree crime ($2,000+ damage), fourth-degree crime ($500-$2,000), or disorderly persons offense ($500 or less). It also adds desecration to the bias intimidation statute, meaning if the act is motivated by bias (e.g., against race, religion, or sexual orientation), it automatically becomes a higher-level offense. The changes directly affect individuals who intentionally damage such sites, with penalties ranging from up to six months in jail for minor damage to up to five years for significant financial harm.