According to authorities, a young woman was kidnapped and almost robbed in Clifton. The woman told investigators that she was sitting in a car with a man at 10:45pm near Vreeland and Main Avenues when a man knocked on the window and claimed to be a police officer. The suspect allegedly told the couple they were breaking the law by being intimate in public and that he could let them go if they drove to the bank to withdraw money. The couple complied because the suspect allegedly had a weapon.
The male victim drove to a nearby bank while another car followed behind them. Once they arrived at the bank, the male victim withdrew money from the ATM. The female was then about to withdraw money, when she turned to a passerby who had just pulled into the parking lot. The female victim was able to mouth the words, “help me.” Police were in the area and arrived just in time to interrupt the crime. They arrested the alleged fake cop, Travis Mann, 39, and his alleged accomplice Paul Dunlop, 45. Both were charged with kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. Click here to read more at www.nj.com.
The state of New Jersey handles kidnapping cases very seriously. Penalties if convicted of kidnapping are severe. Under certain extraordinary circumstances, Kidnapping is a crime of the first degree, punishable by a period of incarceration between 25 years and life, of which the actor shall be required to serve 25 years before being eligible for parole; or a term of 25 years during the entirety of which the actor shall not be eligible for parole.
Otherwise, Kidnapping is a crime of the first degree, punishable by a period of incarceration between 15 and 30 years in New Jersey State Prison, with 85% to be served under the No Early Release Act (NERA).
If the actor releases the victim unharmed and in a safe place prior to apprehension, it is a crime of the second degree, punishable by between 5 and 10 years in New Jersey State Prison, with 85% to be served under NERA.
Note that Kidnapping, like Murder, has sentencing provisions different from the general sentencing provisions applicable to other first degree crimes.
If you or a loved one is charged with kidnapping, 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 individuals charged with kidnapping in towns like Wayne, Clifton, and Paterson. She is committed to ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome. Contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
