According to Paterson Police, a City man was found sitting in his car on New Year’s Eve with a bag of marijuana on his lap and an open container of Patron on the floor. At the time the police came in contact with 33 year-old Courtney Douglas, they were in the process of investigating a robbery. Douglas was allegedly observed to be nervously reaching into the center of the silver Saturn parked on Pearl Street. When Paterson Police Officer Mohammad Bashir approached the vehicle and observed marijuana in a blue sandwich bag located on the man’s lap, he ordered Douglas out of the car. A subsequent search of the vehicle turned up a Phoenix Arms 25 caliber semi-automatic handgun.
Paterson cops seized the marijuana and the loaded handgun, as well as nine (9) rounds which were located in the center console. Douglas was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon and taken to headquarters for processing. Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
In the state of New Jersey, unlawful possession of a weapon is a crime of the second degree which means you may face from 5 to 10 years in prison. You may also be subject to the Graves Act which means if you are convicted, you may have to serve a term of imprisonment with a minimum term of parole ineligibilityfixed at, or between, one-third to one-half of a sentence imposed, or 3 years, whichever is greater.
The State of New Jersey takes these charges very seriously and it’s necessary to have the proper representation in court. Former Morris County Prosecutor, Alissa D. Hascup, has successfully handled countless cases where people are charged with possession of a weapon. She is a committed criminal defense attorney and will ensure that your rights are protected and that you get the best possible outcome. If you find yourself in the situation where you are charged with possession of a weapon, contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.