Man Arrested for Committing Assault in Sparta Township
A 19-year-old man has been arrested after eluding police for five months following an alleged assault at a convenience store in Sparta Township. According to The Daily Record, the assault occurred the night of July 17, 2010 and the man was arrested the morning of January 1, 2011 in North Bergen, NJ. Police have charged the man with three counts of making terroristic threats, simple assault, and hindering apprehension.
New Jersey Statute 2C: 29-3b states: “When someone hinders (his/her) own apprehension or trial, he is interfering with the process of government.” To be found guilty of hindering apprehension, a person must be aware that the police are trying to arrest them and they must actively attempt to prevent and obstruct that arrest from taking place.
Simple assault is an act or threat of violence. The specifics regarding what constitutes simple assault are covered by New Jersey Statute Section 2C:12-1. The penalties for assault range from up to six months in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines. A simple assault charge may become a more serious aggravated assault charge if the accused is a repeat offender or if serious injuries result from the incident. In such cases, it may be more difficult to pursue alternative sentencing to avoid jail time.
The Princeton criminal defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein offer free consultations to anyone facing New Jersey assault charges. We actively explore alternative sentencing options for our clients. Additionally, your case may be thrown out depending on your criminal history and the circumstances of your arrest. Call us today at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help.
