Shoplifting Suspect Arrested in Millburn
A 51-year-old Northfield man faces multiple charges involving store thefts and purse snatching. According to a news report in The Millburn-ShortHills Patch, the arrest occurred after the suspect allegedly fled from police through downtown Millburn. Millburn and Toms River police officers arrested him following a joint investigation. The incidents that officials have linked to the suspect include stealing leather jackets valued at $1,544 from a Nordstrom's and multiple incidents involving drive-by purse snatchings. He now faces multiple charges including eluding police, theft, robbery, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property.
Under New Jersey law, purse snatching is considered an assault because it typically involves physical violence or the threat of violence. N.J.S.A. 2C: 12-1 states that a person is guilty of assault if he "(1) Attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or (2) Negligently causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon; or (3) Attempts by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury." The victim of a purse-snatching incident does not have to be injured for the defendant to face assault charges in New Jersey.
Anyone facing charges stemming from shoplifting or purse snatching would be well advised to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight to protect his or her legal rights and best interests. Having the right legal representation in these types of cases can make the difference between receiving a fair trial and unnecessarily harsh penalties.
The NJ criminal defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have years of experience handling shoplifting cases in New Jersey. If you or a loved one has been charged with shoplifting or theft, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation.
