Bill to Ban “Bump Keys” Clears Committee

February 4, 2010

Contact: Bill Murray / (609) 292-5199
Senator Philip E. Haines (R-8)

Legislation Sponsored by Sen. Phil Haines Would Outlaw Burglars’ Tool

Legislation sponsored by Senator Phil Haines, a member of the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee, that would ban the use of “Bump Keys” unanimously cleared the committee today. Bump keys are specially designed keys that allow amateurs to pick locks in a fraction of a second.

“These kinds of keys are clearly used by burglars to gain access to their victim’s residences and places of business,” Haines stated. “These keys could also be used by terrorists to gain access to secure areas that protect critical infrastructure in our cities and towns.”

This bill would make it unlawful for a person to use a bump key while committing or attempting to commit a burglary. Bump keys are either manufactured or modified keys used to pick locks and are commonly used in burglaries. A bump key can manipulate the pins inside the lock in such a manner that it unlocks a door with minimal force or evidence of a break-in.

Under the provisions of the bill, it would be a fourth degree crime to use a bump key in a burglary. Otherwise, a person who uses a bump key would be guilty of a disorderly person’s offense. The penalty for a fourth degree crime is up to 18 months imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The penalty for a disorderly person’s offense is up to 6 months imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

“Homes broken into with bump keys often show no sign of forced entry. This can delay, reduce or even cancel a home owner’s insurance payment, even when they have a legitimate claim,” Haines concluded.

Link to Post:

http://www.senatenj.com/index.php/haines/bill-to-ban-bump-keys-clears-committee/5317