According to Paterson Police Director, Jerry Speziale, a city man was arrested on Monday in possession of heroin packets stamped “Corona Virus.” The Paterson resident, 53 year-old Tyrone Redd began fleeing police in the area of Godwin Avenue and Auburn Street. While police were chasing behind him, he allegedly dropped a vial of crack cocaine and the baggie of heroin. Redd ran into a nearby yard and hid in an alleyway when police ordered him out. He allegedly told them “F—no.” shortly after a brief struggle, police were able to place Redd under arrest. He allegedly had in his possession: 11 vials of crock, and two additional baggies of ‘Corona vrius’ stamped heroin. He was then charged with drug possession, intent to distribute, intent to distribute near a school and park and obstruction of governmental function by flight. Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
The state of New Jersey takes possession of heroin cases very seriously, and penalties if convicted can be severe. Heroin is a schedule I narcotic. 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 a loved one is charged with possession of heroin, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately, especially given the potential jail sentence if convicted. Former Morris County Prosecutor, Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at representing thousands of individuals charged with possession of heroin throughout New Jersey in towns like Wayne, Clifton and Paterson. 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 about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
