According to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, a man was arrested in connection with a homicide on Summer Street in Paterson that dates back to August 4. Ramon “Lavar” Belfield (from Paterson) allegedly shot and killed Kevin Lewis, 28, outside of 271 Summer Street. According to authorities, the men were involved in an ongoing dispute. Belfield allegedly took out a handgun and began shooting at Lewis. Lewis was found lying in the street with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at St. Joseph’s Medical Center after undergoing emergency surgery.
Belfield was arrested on Friday night around 8:00pm and charged with first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, second-degree possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, and certain persons not to possess firearms. Prosecutors will be moving to have Belfield detained. click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
Murder is a crime of the first degree – the most serious under our Criminal Code. Normally, a crime of the first degree is punishable by a period of between 10 to 20 years in New Jersey State Prison. However, a person convicted of the crime of Murder is subject to a sentence of 30 years to life, with a minimum of 30 years that must be served before the person is eligible for parole. Notably, there are a number of circumstances that will subject a person to a sentence of life without parole including:
- If the victim was a law enforcement officer and was murdered while performing his official duties or was murdered because of his status as a law enforcement officer.
- If the victim was less than 14 years old and the act was committed in the course of the commission, whether alone or with one or more persons, of an act of Sexual Assault or Criminal Sexual Contact.
There are also certain circumstances that mandate serving the sentence in a maximum security prison.
If you find yourself or a loved one in the situation that you are charged with murder, you should contact an criminal defense attorney immediately, especially with your freedom at stake. Former Morris County Prosecutor, Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at defending individuals charged with murder and the entire range of violent crimes. She is committed to protecting your rights in court and ensuring that you achieve the best possible result for your case. Contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
