How Is Substantial Distance From The Location of the Kidnapping Defined?

If the removal of a victim is from a place other than the victim’s residence or place of business, the removal must be to another location that is a “substantial distance” from where the victim was taken. Under New Jersey law, “substantial distance” is not measured by any other standard of linear measurement using feet, yards, or miles. A “substantial distance” must be a significant distance and more than incidental to the underlying crime. It must substantially increase the risk of harm to the victim. The increased risk of harm must not be trivial. The victim may not be removed so slight a distance that the removal does not create isolation and an increased risk of harm.