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What are the penalties for domestic terrorism in New Jersey?
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Penalties for Domestic Terrorism in New Jersey
Domestic terrorism is taken very seriously in New Jersey. Prosecutors go after these cases aggressively, and penalties can be severe if convicted. However, the legal definition of domestic terrorism is broad, so a wide range of offenses could potentially fall under it.
Definition of Domestic Terrorism
For an act to be considered domestic terrorism under federal law, it must meet these main requirements[1]:
- The attack targeted civilians
- It had political or religious motivations
- It involved violence or threats to harm
- The intent was to spread fear
The USA PATRIOT Act expanded the definition after 9/11 and increased penalties. New Jersey also enacted its own counter-terrorism unit in 2001[4]. So state charges could apply too.
Range of Potential Penalties
Penalties vary a lot based on the specifics of the crime[1]. For example, if someone was killed, it could be murder, manslaughter, etc. So prison sentences range from 3 years up to life or the death penalty.
Some potential penalties include[1][2]:
- Up to life in prison if the terrorism results in death
- Minimum 30 years if convicted of terrorism in NJ, with no parole
- Fines up to $500,000
Other charges like arson, assault, making terroristic threats, etc. can also apply. Those carry additional penalties.
Defenses Against Domestic Terrorism Charges
There are defenses that can potentially fight domestic terrorism charges[3]:
- You did not actually commit the act
- The act was not politically/religiously motivated
- Your actions did not intend to intimidate civilians or the government
- You withdrew from the conspiracy before the attack
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can argue these defenses and negotiate for reduced charges/penalties if possible.
Famous NJ Domestic Terrorism Cases
Some high-profile domestic terrorism cases in NJ include:
- Fort Dix Plot – Six radical Islamists conspired to attack Fort Dix military base. Sentences ranged from 33 years to life in prison.
- George Washington Bridge Plot – Two men planned to detonate a car bomb on the bridge but were caught. One got a life sentence.
- Jewish Community Center Shooting – A white supremacist targeted Jewish facilities in shootings. He got a life sentence.
The Bottom Line
Domestic terrorism is broadly defined in NJ. Prosecutors often pursue max penalties. But the specifics of each case determine the actual sentence. An experienced criminal defense attorney can argue for less charges or punishment.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
References
[1] Federal Domestic Terrorism Defense in NJ
[2] NJ Domestic Terrorism Laws
[3] NJ Terrorism Defense Lawyers
[5] NJ Office of Homeland Security