According to authorities, a Paterson man has been charged with murder after a deadly fight early Monday morning. The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office reports that a man allegedly stabbed 52 year-old Aruthur Clauser to death outside at 24 Ward Street around midnight. Police said that Clauser was with 31 year-old Henry Rivera and other friends when the two got into a verbal altercation with led to physical violence. Rivera allegedly stabbed Clauser in the torso and fled the scene. Clauser was rushed to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center for treatment but he died of his injuries. Rivera surrendered the next day at police headquarters. He was charged with first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, and fourth degree unlawful possession of a weapon. Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
The state of New Jersey handles possession for a weapon for unlawful purpose cases seriously and the penalties can be severe. Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose Sentencing Guidelines:
Subsection (a) of the statute is 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 or a loved one is charged with possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately especially given the potential jail time. Former Morris County Prosecutor is skilled and experienced at defending countless individuals charged with weapons offenses in towns like Wayne, Paterson and Clifton. She is committed to ensuring your rights are protected in court and 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.
