According to police, a Paterson man was arrested with a gun. Authorities allege that 26 year-old Koshawn James was walking on Godwin Avenue holding a heavy object in his sweathood pocket at around 2:20am. Detectives exited their vehicles and James began to run East on Godwin Avenue when he allegedly discarded a .22 caliber revolver on the ground. James was chased down and arrested. Detectives Mohammad Bashir, Gilot Castor and Yamil Pimienta were responsible for the arrest. James was charged with weapons offenses. Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
The state of New Jersey takes Unlawful Possession of a Weapon charges very seriously and the 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 find yourself or a loved one in the situation that you are charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, you should contact an attorney immediately, especially given the potential prison sentence if convicted. Former Morris County Prosecutor, Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at defending individuals charged with the entire range of weapons offenses. She is committed to ensuring your rights are protected in court and that you get the best possible outcome for your case. Contact her office for a free consultation. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
