Broadens riot; enhances penalties for certain crimes committed during riot; creates new crimes of mob intimidation and cyber-intimidation by publication; establishes duty in municipality to permit law enforcement to respond appropriately.

This bill (A4714) expands New Jersey's definition of riot to include violent public disturbances involving three or more people causing injury, property damage, or imminent danger. It creates new offenses including "mob intimidation" (using force to compel others to act against their will) and "cyber-intimidation by publication" (sharing personal information to incite violence or harassment). The bill increases penalties for crimes committed during riots, such as assault, burglary, and theft of law enforcement equipment, and requires municipalities to permit appropriate law enforcement responses during riots. It also establishes an affirmative defense in civil cases where injuries occurred during riots. The bill does not restrict constitutionally protected peaceful protests.