According to authorities, a Paterson man was arrested for possession of heroin. At around 2:02am on Saturday, 27 year-old Chauncey Wright was arrested during a raid on Totowa Avenue. The raid took place after police received complaints of drug dealing from the Paterson location. Wright was allegedly in possession of 180 glassine envelopes of heroin and he allegedly had an undisclosed amount of marijuana in his possession. The 27 year-old was charged with drug possession, intent to distribute and intent to distribute in a school zone. Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
The state of New Jersey takes possession of heroin cases seriously and penalties can be severe. N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10 sets forth:
a. It is unlawful for any person, knowingly or purposely, to obtain or to possess, actually or constructively, a controlled dangerous substance or controlled substance analog, unless the substance was obtained directly, or pursuant to a valid prescription or order form from a practitioner, while acting in the course of his professional practice, or except as otherwise authorized by P.L.1970, c.226 (C.24:21-1). Any person who violates this section of the criminal code with respect to:
(1) A controlled dangerous substance, or its analog, classified in Schedule I, II, II, or IV other than those specifically covered in this section, is guilty of a crime of the Third Degree (punishable by a term of incarceration between 3 and 5 years in New Jersey State Prison). A fine of up to $35,000.00 may be imposed;
(2) Any controlled dangerous substance, or its analog, classified in Schedule V, is guilty of a crime of the Fourth Degree (punishable by a term of incarceration up to 18 months in New Jersey State Prison). A fine of up to $15,000.00 may be imposed.
b. Any person who uses or who is under the influence of any controlled dangerous substance, or its analog, for a purpose other than the treatment of sickness or injury as lawfully prescribed or administered by a physician is a disorderly person (punishable by a term of incarceration up to 6 months in the county jail).
If you or someone you know is charged with possession of heroin, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately, especially given the potential jail sentence. Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at defending countless individuals charged with possession of heroin in towns like Wayne, Paterson, and Clifton. She is committed to ensuring your rights are protected in court and that you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact her office for a free consultation. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
