Police in Montclair have just made an arrest in connection with several burglaries that have happened in the township. According to Authorities, a total of $400,000 worth of cash and jewelry was taken from 50 homes. During the alleged burglaries, some residents were home. In one incident, a resident saw the suspect walking through his hallway, as he laid in bed. In another incident, a resident observed the suspect run down the stairwell of the second floor of the home and exit through a back door.
According to authorities, the suspect allegedly forced entry into the homes by kicking in doors or by using a tool; and in other situations, the suspect entered through unlocked doors and took pocketbooks and wallets from kitchen and dining areas of the homes. The Montclair Police Department announced on Thursday that they charged 29 year-old Saveon Hayles in connection with 18 burglaries, 4 attempted burglaries and second degree Theft. Click here to read more at www.patch.com.
Burglary is a crime of the third degree, except that it is a crime of the second degree if in the course of committing the offense the actor: 1. Purposely, knowingly or recklessly inflicts, attempts to inflict or threatens to inflict bodily injury on anyone; or 2. Is armed with or displays what appear to be explosives or a deadly weapon. 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 second degreeis punishable by a term of imprisonment of between 5 and 10 years in New Jersey State Prison. Burglary in the second degree is an enumerated crime under the No Early Release Act (NERA), meaning that 85% of the sentence imposed must be served before becoming eligible for parole.
If you find yourself in the situation that you are charged with burglary, you should seek legal representation immediately. Criminal defense lawyer, Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced in representing countless individuals charged with burglary, and other property offenses, throughout the state of New Jersey. She is committed to ensuring your rights are protected in court and has successfully defended individuals in towns like, Clifton, Wayne, and Paterson. Contact her office today for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
