Since 1999 it is illegal to wear bullet proof vests while committing a crime criminals who are caught wearing one can be charged with wearing the vests as a separate crime

Wearing Bullet-Proof Vests: A Crime Within a Crime?

Criminals are always trying to stay one step ahead of the law. In their pursuit of committing crimes, some criminals have resorted to wearing bullet-proof vests for protection. However, what they may not be aware of is that since 1999, it has been illegal to wear bullet-proof vests while carrying out a crime in many jurisdictions. This means that criminals who are caught wearing a bullet-proof vest can be charged with an additional offense - wearing the vest itself.

The prohibition on wearing bullet-proof vests during the commission of a crime raises an important question - why would wearing a vest be considered a separate crime? To answer this question, we need to understand the rationale behind this law.

In many criminal acts, the intention is to cause harm or terrorize individuals. When a criminal decides to wear a bullet-proof vest, they are knowingly taking steps to protect themselves from the potential consequences of their actions. By doing so, they are demonstrating a level of premeditation and intent to engage in a criminal act without facing the same risks as their victims.

The legislation pertaining to the use of bullet-proof vests during criminal activities varies across jurisdictions. For instance, in the state of New Jersey, under section 2C:39-13 of their criminal code, it is clearly stated that “a person who has been convicted of a crime… who wears or uses a body vest while engaged in the commission of, or attempted commission of, or flight after committing or attempting to commit murder, manslaughter, robbery, sexual assault, burglary, kidnapping, criminal escape or assault may, in addition to the punishment provided for the crime under any other provision of law, be punished by an additional term of imprisonment.”

This law aims to discourage criminals from thinking they can evade justice by wearing such protective gear. It sends a clear message that the use of bullet-proof vests while engaging in criminal behavior will not be tolerated.

Implementing a separate charge for wearing a bullet-proof vest during the commission of a crime serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it acts as a deterrent, dissuading criminals from wearing vests in the first place. Additionally, the charge exemplifies how society views this act as an aggravation, deserving greater punishment. Furthermore, it can help ensure that law enforcement and innocent bystanders are better protected from potential harm during crime situations, as wearing a bullet-proof vest can enable criminals to prolong their criminal activity or provoke law enforcement.

It’s important to note that the prohibition on wearing bullet-proof vests during the commission of a crime is by no means an infringement on an individual’s right to self-defense. It specifically targets those who seek to exploit such protective gear in the pursuit of unlawful activities.

In conclusion, wearing bullet-proof vests while committing a crime has been deemed a separate offense in many jurisdictions since 1999. This prohibition acts as a deterrent, demonstrates a higher level of premeditation, and ensures that criminals face appropriate consequences for their actions. By implementing and enforcing this law, authorities aim to reinforce the importance of protecting innocent lives and maintaining law and order in society.

Source: New Jersey Criminal Code - Section 2C:39-13