Authorities claim the investigation included an undercover federal agent who posed as a hit man last October. She approached the agent and asked him to kill the woman in question. After she supposedly agreed to pay $10,000 to the agent for the murder, she was arrested.
]]> In addition to the $1 million bail, which was set earlier this month, the woman has since been released to home confinement with no visitors or outside communication allowed. In addition, she is facing 24-hour electronic monitoring and receiving mental health treatment. While the charges seem severe, the fact that she has been given mental health treatment in order to cope through this difficult period may indicate that there are emotional issues underlying the case that may affect how her criminal defense proceeds.For the New Jersey woman, the charges that she faces can have serious implications for both her and her children, as she is no doubt aware. At this time, the details of the ongoing plea negotiations are not known. However, knowing that the woman was recently released on bail may suggest that there is a serious effort to resolve the pending federal charges. Nevertheless, the hope is that the woman will consult with her attorney in order to determine whether or not it is in her best interests to accept any plea bargains put forward.
Source: The Republic, "Northern NJ woman charged in murder-for-hire scheme free on bail," May 3, 2012
]]>On a recent night, police officers reportedly found the 21-year-old man asleep and slumped over his steering wheel. At the time, police claim that he was stopped at an intersection, but had his foot on the brake despite being asleep.
]]> At this point, the police roused the man and administered a field sobriety test. Authorities indicate he failed the test, though they acknowledge he was not intoxicated by alcohol. As such, authorities charged him under DWI statutes, which include driving under the influence of illegal drugs.Upon searching the man's car, police found morphine sulfate and hydrocodone, which are prescription drugs. They also found a straw that allegedly had an unspecified white powder on it.
As the man prepares for court, he should remember that depending on how the police conducted their search and seizure, the evidence they found may not be admissible during trial if the police collected it in the wrong way. For example, if officers did not properly document chain of custody when they seized the drugs, the validity of some evidence can be called into question. This documentation provides some element of proof that the evidence was actually in the man's possession.
Furthermore, investigators did not indicate whether any toxicology reports were pending. Without that documentation, there may not be enough evidence to prove the man was intoxicated while he was driving beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the standard in criminal trials.
Understanding the penalties associated with the criminal charges in this case, it will be important for the young man's attorney to carefully review all the evidence offered by the prosecution. In this way, he may be able to reduce or eliminate some of the charges leveled against him.
Source: New Jersey Herald, "Police find intoxicated man passed out in car," April 29, 2012
]]>His first reported meeting with the girl was at her home when he was called there for assistance in an unrelated matter. The parents were reportedly upset with the way he acted around their daughter and claimed that he had made inappropriate comments toward the girl, though the specific comments were not disclosed.
]]> After the parent's complained to officials, other detectives allegedly decided to pretend to pose as the girl in order to catch the man through text messaging. According to investigators, this ruse worked and the man allegedly responded with sexually explicit messages and eventually tried to meet up with the girl.At this point, it is not exactly clear how the two individuals began their exchange via text message. As such, it is uncertain why the police officer expected texts from the girl.
The man accused of these sex crimes had worked for the police department for a total of 12 years, with no apparent blemished on his record. Since being charged with the crimes, the officer has pleaded not guilty to the charges, a plea which deserves a lot of attention and careful consideration.
It is not uncommon for law enforcement officials to initiate a sting operation, relying on deception, in order to target potential sex offenders. In this case, the police officer was caught as the police were luring him into committing an illegal act.
For the officer who has been charged, there is probably a lot going on in his mind right now. The penalties for conviction for sex crimes and, in particular, sexual assault, can be very harsh. Even though there was no physical act and the charges are for attempted aggravated sexual assault, he faces the possibility of jail time, not to mention the fact he could lose his job and have to register as a sex offender if convicted.
Source: CBS New York, "Woodland Park Cop Accused Of Luring 12-Year-Old Girl For 'Sexual Purpose'," April 25, 2012
]]>The juvenile detention alternatives program was started when lawmakers recognized that the juvenile detention centers were often overcrowded with children who were awaiting the final verdict in their criminal trials. The success of this program has justified the decision to forego building more facilities in order to lock up many children who may be found innocent.
]]> Under this program, those juveniles who are accused of non-violent acts are allowed to be supervised by their community as they wait for their trials to be resolved. While alleged violent offenders who are deemed to be a risk to the general public are kept in custody, non-violent offenders are allowed to continue with the many activities that they have in their day-to-day life. This, in turn, has helped free up the overcrowded detention centers.Often for children who are charged with a juvenile crime, it can be stressful as they prepare for trial. This is especially true when they are locked up in a juvenile detention center and kept away from all their family and loved ones. For this reason, the Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative may be a smart and practical way to alleviate pressure the New Jersey juvenile detention system while simultaneously allowing for non-violent alleged offenders to spend time with their families.
In some cases, this program may be the best option for juveniles standing trial. Keeping this in mind, it's best to assess all available legal options in order to make sure those accused are treated fairly and receive a just outcome when they are on trial.
Source: New Jersey Newsroom, "Detention of non-violent New Jersey juvenile delinquents saw over 50 percent decrease in 2011," Tom Hester Sr., April 12, 2012
]]>The drug task force from the county prosecutor's office was said to have learned about a large amount of marijuana being shipped from an interstate business on the west coast city to a New Jersey warehouse in Montville Township. The drugs were shipped in "relocation tubes," commonly used to transport bulk materials from tractor-trailer to tractor-trailer throughout the country. Federal drug agents supposedly got word that someone was planning to go the warehouse and claim the container full of drugs.
]]> Subsequently, officers report they saw the man and woman approach the container and an undercover agent met with them before helping them to unload the drugs. They were then both arrested and charged with possession of more than 25 pounds of marijuana with intent to distribute and conspiracy to possess more than 25 pounds of marijuana. They were detained at the Morris County Jail in lieu of posting bail.Notwithstanding the grave nature of the drug charges, the New Jersey defendants are both innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Like anyone else accused of a crime in our state, they are fully entitled to defend themselves by confronting witnesses against them in court and challenging any evidence sought to be introduced against them.
To obtain a conviction, the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the defendants plead not guilty, the onus is on the prosecution to prove each and every element of the drug charges in a fair and impartial criminal proceeding. If the prosecutor does not meet the burden of proof for conviction, the individuals charged cannot be found guilty.
Source: The Citizen, "Pair busted picking up $250,000 in marijuana shipped to Montville warehouse," April 9, 2012
]]>Police deputies say they heard gunshots while patrolling near the scene of the crime, and purportedly saw the teenager running away from the shooting. Police chased after the young man on foot, ultimately capturing him. He was arrested and charged with murder. The teenager was also charged with attempted murder and weapons offenses from an unrelated event that supposedly occurred this past March.
]]> Several details left out of the initial report raise questions. There was no indication that the teenager was carrying a gun or anything that could incriminate him as the shooter when he was apprehended. There are, of course, many reasons to run from a shooting and doing so does not -- in and of itself -- prove that he is guilty of anything.The news report describing the events offers little insight into the other crimes charged against the man. There was no information divulged as to what was allegedly involved or why police suspected the individual in the first place. These may be important issues to grapple with as the man's defense prepares their presentation to the court that will ultimately hear his matter.
Whatever the case may be, it is evident that this New Jersey teenager will have many questions to answer when he faces court. If convicted on the murder, the young man will likely face life-altering consequences, including a substantial period of incarceration and other penalties associated with felony crime. As he prepares for trial, he will need to assemble a solid criminal defense in order to protect his legal rights and achieve a fair result.
Source: The Republic, "Man faces murder, related charges in northern NJ shooting that left 1 man dead, 1 wounded," March 27, 2012
]]>After going to the house in Mahwah, New Jersey, police investigators allegedly discovered a "large quantity" of illegal drugs, including mushrooms, marijuana, and Xanax. They also reported finding psilocybin, which is the purified psychedelic component in mushrooms. Some of the psilocybin had been measured using an electronic scale and plastic cups, which were construed by police as evidence that the five were intending to distribute the drugs, heightening the seriousness of the charges. Four of the people in the condo, including a 19 year old who resided there, were charged with the possession and intent to distribute. The fifth person in the condo, a 20-year-old male, was only charged with possession, though it is unclear why his charge was different.
]]> Though these charges understandably seem grave, there are many questions that surface upon a closer examination. For instance, nowhere in the report does it establish the exact circumstance under which the police entered the condo. Police are required to follow certain procedures in their investigations and arrests, and when evidence exists that errors were made, the underlying charges could be affected or even dismissed entirely. Furthermore, it is possible that one or more individuals present in the condo at the time of the arrest had no knowledge of any claimed illegal drug activity.Those in New Jersey purportedly distributing illegal drugs may find themselves facing charges that carry steep penalties or jail time upon conviction. For the young people who face these drug charges, this can mean that their lives could be significantly altered if they are found guilty, a fact that probably already weighs heavily on their minds.
Source: AllMediaNY.com, "Young N.J. Adults Busted for 'Shrooms'," Stephanie Ortiz, March 26, 2012
]]>Law enforcement officials from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Computer Crimes Unit have not indicated what type of bullying the student may have endured. They are likely investigating bullying at school, in the community and over the internet.
]]> Holding "bullies" liable for suicide is a recent trend, particularly with the increasing awareness of "cyber-bullying" and the threat that it poses to teens. However, it also raises questions about whether we are taking criminal liability too far, particularly when someone chooses to take their own life.This month, Rutgers student was found guilty of 15 counts, including invasion of privacy, witness tampering, evidence tampering, as well as bias intimidation (hate crimes), charges when his roommate killed himself after alleged bullying. The defendant claims that he did not participate in any bullying or hate crimes.
This is another tragic case involving a teen who clearly suffered anguish and pain, despite what was known by his family and peers. The victim's family and friends agree that, "No one should ever be bullied to the point where they feel they need to take their own life." What do you think? Should bullies be criminally liable for suicide of bully victims?
NBC New York, "Bullying Eyed in NJ Teen's Apparent Suicide: Sources," April 1, 2012.
]]>A 60-year-old man was charged with DUI and reckless driving after being involved in a one-vehicle crash earlier this month. While driving on local roads that evening, the man apparently veered off the road and struck a fence. This crash was said to cut off power and gas supplies to the surrounding residential community until about noon the following day. No injuries were reported in the accident, but the man's car was impounded under John's Law. The law permits police to impound vehicles for 12 hours of those charged with driving under the influence.
]]> Though the accident was unfortunate and caused nearby residents a temporary inconvenience, this may not be enough to prove the man was intoxicated while driving. There are many reasons why the man could have refused to take the Breathalyzer test, including pre-existing medical problems or minor injuries that may have been sustained during the car accident. While New Jersey law may provide penalties for failure to take the test, it does not necessarily mean the man is guilty of the charges filed against him.In some cases, those with drink driving violations are able to get DUI charges reduced or entirely eliminated. As the man prepares for trial, he will want to closely examine the details of the incident and its aftermath to make sure all his legal rights were honored and protected. Also, he may wish to ensure that no critical pieces of information are omitted that may show that he was responding to the situation in the same way a sober person who was just involved in a startling car accident.
Source: Toms River Patch, "Asbury Park Man Charged With DUI, Reckless Driving In South Seaside Park MVA," Judy Bendar, March 18, 2012
]]>The accused man, who works in a restaurant kitchen, allegedly sexually abused a female juvenile, whose age was not released. According to authorities, the two parties had previously been acquaintances before the alleged assault, although the exact details of their relationship was not indicated. The juvenile female notified the local police of the alleged assault, which prompted a joint investigation between the local department and the Bergen County Special Victim's Unit.
]]> Because of the lack of details presented in the initial report, it may indicate that the facts are under investigation or in dispute. At this time, it appears as though the majority of the evidence relies on the juvenile female's claims. As the criminal proceedings commence, it will be necessary for the accused man to review the specific charges brought upon him as a result of the accusation with a view toward clearing his name.Understandably, a criminal charge of sexual assault can be devastating for anyone who is accused of the crime. Though all those who have been accused are considered innocent unless proven guilty, there exists a social stigma in New Jersey and elsewhere against those who are even charged with sex crimes. As the accused man prepares for trial, he will need to focus his attention on the allegations and take steps to ensure all of his legal rights are fully protected as he fights for his liberty.
Source: NorthJersey.com, "Cliffside Park man arrested for alleged sexual assault," Stacey Rosenfeld, March 16, 2012
]]>Authorities say the older brother was playing with a pistol that belonged to his mother, who is a corrections officer. While toying with the weapon, he supposedly fired the gun and a bullet landed in his half-brother's chest. He has since been charged with aggravated manslaughter, possession of a firearm for unlawful purposes and hindering the investigation.
]]> While this is a tragedy that will likely haunt the accused boy and his family for the rest of their lives, there are several questions that can be raised about the specific circumstances of the incident. For example, the boys' mother was home during the time of the shooting, though her role in the incident, if any, has not been reported. However, she is currently working with investigators.During the course of a pre-trial investigation, the defense team scrutinizes all available evidence in order to find inconsistencies that may lead to some charges being reduced or eliminated. As the teen prepares for trial, it will be necessary to clarify these details, as well as any other inconsistencies that may exist. This matter may indeed be an occasion for the New Jersey juvenile justice system to slow down and take a close and careful look at all of the facts and circumstances. The teen has the right to tell his side of the story in answer to the juvenile charges as the trial moves forward. Perhaps the legal system will find a way to prevent an already horrific accident from becoming even more unfortunate.
Source: WABC-TV New York, "Teen charged with manslaughter in brother's death," March 8, 2012
]]>Witnesses say the man and his 25-year-old girlfriend had been arguing in public the day she passed away. Thereafter, the man left the area in his vehicle. However, the police report indicates that witnesses saw the vehicle return to the scene, proceeding to strike the woman while she was making her way across an intersection. The man is said to have run the woman over more than once.
]]> Authorities claim the man abandoned his car and hid in New York City, where he was located the next day and placed under arrest. He is currently being held in jail with bail set at $3 million. In initial court proceedings, he pleaded not guilty to the accusations of vehicular homicide.Like this particular case, criminal prosecutors often build their case entirely on the testimony of eyewitnesses. In recent years, the veracity of certain eyewitness claims has undergone considerable scrutiny. The reality of events can sometimes contradict the details of the evidence eyewitnesses provide. In the time between an incident and the time eyewitnesses are interviewed by police or put on the witness stand to testify, particular details of an event can become misconstrued as memories are subject to various forms of interference. In criminal trials that involve a significant amount of eyewitness testimony, legal defense teams may have to painstakingly analyze every detail of a case's evidence to make sure everything checks out.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, "NJ man pleads not guilty to running over lover," Feb. 27, 2012
]]>According to authorities, the three teenagers allegedly contributed to the shooting and death of the 17-year-old on Feb. 20 at a park near Polk Elementary School. The victim died immediately. While there were no reported witnesses of the actual event, people nearby the elementary school said they initially thought that the alleged gunfire had been fireworks set off by students on Presidents Day. The connection between the accused teenagers and the victim is not known at this time.
]]> The two 17-year-olds were being held at the county juvenile detention center. The 18-year-old was detained at the Union County Jail with bail set at $1 million.While the death of the 17-year-old boy is certainly a tragedy that has shaken up the community of Roselle, it is important to remember that all those who are facing criminal charges are innocent unless and until proven guilty. In cases like this, prosecutors are often under immense pressure from the public to secure a conviction. However, every accused person has a right to a fair trial under U.S. law. Cases like this often come with harsh and life-changing consequences. Because of this, the young men in this case may find it helpful to obtain a complete understanding of their rights and options as they face such serious charges.
Source: NBC News 4 New York, "3 Arrested in Deadly NJ Playground Shooting," Feb. 23, 2012
]]>Charles Cain, Deputy Mayor of Hamilton Township, was arrested last year on DWI charges after he refused to take a field sobriety test. Most recently, he pled guilty to drunk driving in court. As a result of this conviction, Cain will lose his license for 10 months and pay a large fine.
]]> In light of the conviction, Cain plans an appeal, because he believes local cops unfairly hunted him down. The cops may have wanted to seek revenge on the politician because 11 cops had been laid off just days before the arrest.It is very important that police do not abuse their privileges when arresting people for DWI, or any other suspected crime. A representative for Cain said that law enforcement officers looked up his license plate information long before they even pulled him over. In other words, Cain contends that police were targeting him. If Cain's assertions are indeed accurate, they raise some serious ethical issues.
Despite Cain's claims to the contrary, local police maintain that there was no wrongdoing on their part. They state they were just doing what they needed in order to protect the public against drunk drivers.
This case serves as a good reminder that those convicted have the right to an appeal, based on an unfair conviction or sentence. No one deserves to be wrongly convicted of a crime, especially if fundamental rights or protections are violated. A trustworthy legal professional will act on your behalf to make sure you are treated fairly by the criminal justice system.
Source: Fox News, "New Jersey town official blames vengeful cops for DWI bust," Feb. 10, 2012
]]>On a recent evening, cops cornered the men at a New Jersey convenience store. Cop cars surrounded the gas pumps and they began to take steps to make arrests. Reportedly, the police officers had probable cause to search the vehicle for any illegal materials. Cops found heroin, cocaine, and a small portion of marijuana. In addition, the cops found an illegal weapon, for which all the men are being charged.
]]> The men were locked-up in a local correctional facility and their bail was set at an undisclosed amount.When making a drug arrest it is very important for law enforcement to respect the rights of those suspected of possession. If police establish probable cause based on a faulty premise or do not properly perform the arrest, the accused may have had their rights violated.
Drug charges carry very significant penalties, so it is important that individuals being charged with drug crimes are aware of their rights when their freedom is at risk. In some cases, individuals are charged with possession because they were in a location where drugs were found; they were at the wrong place, at the wrong time. As such, it is incredibly important to establish a strong defense when you are accused of such a serious offense. Law enforcement officials and prosecutors will do everything they can to secure a conviction, so it is important that you have someone to advocate for your rights when charged with a drug violation.
Source: Today's Sunbeam, "4 men arrested in Salem are identified, facing numerous drug, weapons charges," Phil Dunn, Feb. 9, 2012
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