According to authorities in Paterson, a city man was arrested in possession of a handgun after shots were fired on North 10th Street. According to public safety director, Jerry Speziale, 24 year-old Shamel Wilkins was observed walking on North 8th Street on Thursday after police received a report of gunfire on North 10th Street and Belmont Ave. As detectives approached the area, they heard more gunfire. Wilkins began to walk away, and he was observed allegedly putting a firearm in his front pocket.
When police announced themselves, Wilkins started to run. A foot chase ensued and Wilkins allegedly threw a firearm on the ground on North 8th Street. He was arrested on North 9th Street. Detectives recovered a loaded .38 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Wilkins was charged with numerous weapons offenses including certain persons not to have weapons. Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
The state of New Jersey handles unlawful possession of a weapon cases very seriously and penalties can be severe. Subsections (a), (b), and (c) of the statute are subject to sentencing under the Graves Act, meaning that an individual convicted of such an offense must be sentenced to a term of imprisonment with a minimum term of parole ineligibility fixed at, or between, one-third to one-half of a sentence imposed, or 3 years, whichever is greater.
A crime of the second degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of between 5 and 10 years in New Jersey State Prison.
A crime of the third degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 5 years in New Jersey State Prison.
A crime of the fourth degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 18 months in New Jersey State Prison.
- The Certain Persons not to have weapons sentencing guidelines are also subject to sentencing under the Graves Act.
If you or a loved one is charged with unlawful possession of a weapon or certain persons not to have weapons, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately especially given the potential jail sentence. Former Morris County Prosecutor, Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at defending countless individuals charged with the entire range of weapons offenses throughout New Jersey. She is committed to ensuring you get the best possible outcome for your case. Contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
