According to police, a 25 year-old was arrested in Paterson in possession of a handgun. Authorities say that Police observed Craig Tomlinson driving a Toyota Camry with Massachusetts license plates on Godwin Avenue and Carroll Street at around 11:50pm. He allegedly failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection. Police followed his vehicle to Hamilton Avenue and conducted a motor vehicle stop. When detectives approached the vehicle they noticed a strong odor of marijuana. Tomlinson was then removed from the vehicle. Detectives James Jenkins and Suquan Gary allegedly observed a handgun on Tomlinson’s waistband. They recovered a glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. Tomlinson was charged with numerous weapons offenses. 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.
If you or a loved one is charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately because your freedom is at stake. Former Morris County Prosecutor, Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at defending countless individuals charged with the entire range of weapons offenses. She has successfully represented individuals in towns like Wayne, Clifton, and Paterson. She is committed to ensuring your rights are protected in court. Contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
