According to authorities, Paterson Police arrested eight people at the Terrace Bar and Grill on Totowa Avenue on numerous drug offenses. Undercover detectives investigated reports of a significant amount of drug dealing happening in the bar. Police seized 10 plastic baggies of cocaine and $268 in suspected narcotics proceeds. Police subsequently arrested the two alleged drug dealers, Ramon Rivera , 47, of Haledon and Brian Wichowski, 28, of Little Falls and charged the duo with 13 drug offenses each.
The other six alleged buyers were all charged with one single drug offense each. Police also conducted an Alcoholic Beverage Control inspection (ABC) which also led to 11 administrative charges against the business. Paterson Mayor, Andre Sayegh commented, “We will not tolerate establishments that operate illegally anymore in Paterson.” Click here to read more at www.patersontimes.com.
Cocaine is considered a Schedule II narcotic. N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 sets forth: a. Except as authorized by P.L.1970, c.226 (C.24:21-1), it shall be unlawful for any person knowingly or purposely: (1) To manufacture, distribute or dispense, or to possess or have under his control with intent to manufacture, distribute or dispense, a controlled dangerous substance or controlled substance analog; or (2) To create, distribute, or possess or have under his control with intent to distribute, a counterfeit controlled dangerous substance.
If you are charged with a crime of the First Degree you face between 10 and 20 years in New Jersey State Prison. The defendant shall, except as provided in N.J.S.2C:35-12 (Waiver of Mandatory Minimum and Extended Terms), be sentenced to a term of imprisonment by the court. A fine of up to $500,000.00 may be imposed; Manufacturing, Distributing, or Dispensing Cocaine is a violation subject to sentencing under the “Brimage Guidelines,” which eliminates the defense attorney’s opportunity to argue for a downward departure at the time of sentencing (lower sentencing).
If you or someone you know is charged with a serious drug offense such as manufacturing, distributing or possession, you should contact an attorney immediately. Such drug offenses carry substantial prison time as well as hefty fines. Former Morris County Prosecutor Alissa D. Hascup is skilled and experienced at representing thousands of individuals charged with various drug offenses throughout the state of New Jersey. Contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
