Broadens offenses of riot and disorderly conduct; enhances penalties for public monument destruction; addresses riot victim assaults; creates crime of promotion of violent, disorderly assembly.

This New Jersey bill (S 652) updates laws around public disorder by broadening the definition of "riot" to include actions like using weapons or causing property damage during gatherings of five or more people. It increases penalties for damaging public monuments (making it a fourth-degree crime during riots) and creates a new offense for promoting violent, disorderly assemblies. The bill directly affects individuals engaging in disruptive behavior at public events, including protests or gatherings near monuments, schools, or public venues. Key changes clarify that refusing to disperse after an official order or causing injury during a riot now carries stricter penalties under existing assault and disorderly conduct statutes.