Measure offers more victims of sex assault access to protection in NJ

A measure under consideration in New Jersey would allow more victims of sexual assault to seek protective orders against their attackers.

 

Current law requires victims to have a domestic relationship with the offender or file a criminal complaint against the attacker to obtain a protective order from a judge.

Assemblywoman Valerie Huttle has proposed a measure to eliminate those conditions.

“Whether it’s an increase in reporting or an increase in incidences around college campuses, sexual assault is on the rise,” said Huttle, D-Bergen. “This will allow a victim to be more protected, whether there is a stalking, whether there is a reason to feel that they need this restraining order.”

The Assembly voted unanimously to pass the measure. It’s still awaiting action in the Senate.