On Wednesday, two men were arrested in Hawthorne following a motor vehicle stop. According to police, Anthony Papa and James Ebeling (both from upstate New York) were traveling in a 2004 Ford Fusion near Utter Ave in Hawthorne when they were pulled over. The officer allegedly noticed track marks on the driver s arm, and a rubber band on the passenger s arm. (A rubber band is commonly characterized by law enforcement as drug paraphernalia, since it can be a tool for aiding in the injection of heroin, but can also be used to packaged larger quantities of drugs). During the questioning that ensued, both of the men provided conflicting stories as to where they were coming from and going to.
Officers subsequently searched the vehicle which yielded 30 bricks of heroin (1,500 glassine envelopes), two hypodermic syringes, marijuana, cash, and materials commonly used for packaging narcotics for distribution. Police seized the items as evidence and arrested Papa and Ebeling, who were later charged with various drug offenses and sent to the Passaic County Jail, where they will be held pending a detention hearing before a Superior Court Judge.
Being charged with Possession of Heroin can have serious consequences, including hefty fines and in some instances, exposure to jail time. Heroin is a controlled dangerous substance and it is classified as a Schedule I narcotic. Possession of a Schedule 1 narcotic is a crime of the Third Degree (punishable by a term of incarceration between 3 and 5 years in New Jersey State Prison and a fine of up to $35,000.00). A drug conviction can also result in a license suspension ranging from 6-24 months.
Criminal defense attorney, Alissa D. Hascup, Esq. has successfully defended individuals charged with a variety of drug offenses through Passaic County, including charges that originated in Hawthorne, Paterson, and Totowa. Contact her office now for a free consultation. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
