Establishes criminal liability for property destruction occurring during auto theft and police pursuit for auto theft; requires restitution for damages incurred.

New Jersey Senate Bill S 4005 establishes criminal liability for property damage occurring during auto theft or police pursuits related to auto theft. It makes it a crime (third degree for $500+ damage, fourth degree for less) for anyone involved in the theft, attempted theft, or immediate flight to cause property damage, regardless of whether the damage was caused by the thief, police during a pursuit, or others. Convicted individuals must pay restitution to property owners for repair or replacement costs, including reasonable fees. The law explicitly states that police-caused damage during a pursuit or not being the driver does not serve as a defense. This bill directly affects individuals committing auto theft and those fleeing after such crimes.