New Jersey Law Requires Purchasers of Used Jewelry to Report Certain Transactions

In New Jersey, there is a specific law that requires purchasers of used or secondhand jewelry to report certain transactions to law enforcement. This law, New Jersey Statute 2C:21-39, is part of New Jersey’s criminal code dealing with forgery and related offenses.

Overview of the Law

The main purpose of 2C:21-39 is to help law enforcement track transactions involving used jewelry, particularly in cases where the jewelry may be stolen. Under the law, any person who buys used or secondhand jewelry in New Jersey must immediately report any delivery or sale of more than one article of jewelry to appropriate law enforcement, which would typically be the local police department.

The report must include details like:

• The name and address of the purchaser
• The name and address of the seller
• A description of the jewelry purchased, including weight, quality, and purchase price
• Any unique identifying marks on the jewelry

This allows the police to cross-reference the transaction details against reports of stolen jewelry and track the sales of potentially stolen goods.

Who Must Comply with the Law

The reporting requirement applies to all individuals who purchase used or secondhand jewelry in New Jersey. This includes pawn shops, jewelry stores, auction houses, antique shops, or anyone else buying previously-owned jewelry.

It does not apply to transactions between private individuals – only if an individual purchases used jewelry with the intent to resell it to a business does the reporting requirement kick in.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to report as required under 2C:21-39 can result in being charged with a disorderly persons offense. This carries potential penalties of up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

In addition to criminal charges, a purchaser could also face civil liability if they purchase stolen jewelry and do not properly report the transaction. This creates risk under laws regarding receiving stolen property.

Benefits to the Community

While 2C:21-39 creates more paperwork for used jewelry purchasers, it provides important benefits to New Jersey communities:

• Helps recover stolen jewelry for victims of theft
• Assists law enforcement in catching and prosecuting jewelry thieves
• Deters potential thieves by making it harder to fence stolen jewelry
• Cuts down on illegal trafficking of stolen goods
• Protects legitimate businesses by preventing unscrupulous sellers from unloading stolen merchandise

By taking simple steps to properly document and report used jewelry transactions, purchasers can comply with the law while also promoting community safety and aiding law enforcement. Responsible reporting makes New Jersey less attractive for jewelry thieves looking to profit from their crimes.

Advice for Sellers

For individuals looking to sell used jewelry, there are a few things to keep in mind in light of New Jersey’s reporting law:

• Be prepared to show ID and provide your name, address, and contact details to the purchaser
• Know that the purchaser will be recording detailed information about each piece sold
• Expect the purchaser to submit a report to police if you sell more than one item
• Keep receipts for all jewelry sold to help avoid any confusion if police have questions
• Consider using a pawn broker or jeweler you trust and who properly complies with reporting laws

Reputable jewelry purchasers will follow the law while protecting seller privacy and information. Avoid any buyers who suggest keeping the transaction “off the books.” Responsible reporting ultimately protects the community.

The Bottom Line

New Jersey Statute 2C:21-39 serves an important public safety purpose by requiring reporting of used jewelry transactions. While it creates more work for purchasers, responsible reporting can help recover stolen goods, catch criminals, and deter theft. By better understanding the law’s intent and properly documenting transactions, both buyers and sellers of previously-owned jewelry can do their part to comply and keep the community safe.