New Jersey has some of the toughest gun crime laws in the country. That means facing jail time for even carrying a gun and even worse penalties for using it.
A Blackwood man found that out the hard way recently when he was arrested and charged with attempted murder, weapons possession and resisting arrest by flight. The man was arrested by state troopers following a foot chase through a wooded area.
The troopers were responding to a report of gunshots fired at a motel at the intersection of Routes 40 and 54. When troopers arrived they identified the suspect who tried to flee through a wooded area. One trooper discharged his weapon during the chase but not strike anyone. The man had a handgun on him at the time of his arrest. He is currently being held in jail pending a detention hearing.
Weapons Charges Are A Serious Offense
In New Jersey, there are a number of charges you could face in regard to weapons. From possessing a weapon for unlawful purposes to possessing a prohibited weapon, there are many strict laws and penalties for those charged. Possessing a firearm or explosive with the purpose of using them unlawfully is considered a second-degree crime. It carries a prison sentence between five and 10 years and a fine.
Possessing a prohibited weapon (which there are no permits for) is a fourth-degree crime and is punishable by up to 18 months in jail. Prohibited weapons include but are not limited to a stun gun, switchblade knife, hollow point bullets, dagger, billy club, slingshot, defaced firearm, ballistic knife, silencer, metal knuckle, etc. There are also laws that dictate individuals who are not allowed to possess a weapon. Those who have ever been committed to a mental hospital or convicted of any crime other than a disorderly person offense will be on this list.
If you are found to be in possession of a gun while committing another crime, trying to commit a crime or even just conspiring to commit a crime, you could end up facing second-degree weapons charges. Again, New Jersey weapons laws are strict and being convicted can impact your life for the long term.
Get Help from Experience NJ Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are ever going to have a fighting chance at leading a normal life without the burden of a weapons offense conviction, you will need the expertise of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. In New Jersey, you should look no further than The Law Office of Stephen R. Piper, LLC. He will utilize investigators to determine the validity of your charges and make sure you have a strong defense on your side. Do not let your life be ruined by a weapons charge. Call today at 856-351-5335 to start building your strongest defense.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.