Press Releases
Girgenti Anti-Gang Gun Bill Becomes Law
January 13, 2008
TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator John A. Girgenti, Chairman of the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to address the growing problem of gang-related gun violence, was signed into law this week.
The bill, S-2431, will increase the penalty for unlawful gun possession making it a second degree crime to knowingly carry handguns without a permit.
“Targeting illegal gun possession is a way for law enforcement to crack down on gang members who can avoid prosecution for other crimes by intimidating witnesses,” said Senator John A. Girgenti, a prime sponsor of the bill. “With charges of illegal gun possession, a police officer’s testimony alone can take dangerous, violent offenders off our streets for up to 10 years.”
Provisions of the bill specify that the charge of gun possession be contingent upon discovery by law enforcement in a public place without a permit, addressing the concerns of lawful gun owners.
“This bill is essential to our fight against gang violence in our communities,” said Senator Girgenti. “Keeping guns out of the hands of gang members is critical to the safety and well-being of our citizens.”