A high school hockey coach in Bayonne was arrested and charged with several weapons offenses after he allegedly took a handgun belonging to another coach and pointed it at two people in the ice rink during practice, according to a recent article at NJ.com.
The coach, who also teaches social studies at the high school, is said to have “gained possession” of a handgun from a volunteer coach for the team, who also works as a New Jersey state trooper and who had “secured” his weapon in the coaches’ locker room at the rink, said police. Then, police claim, he pointed the weapon “in the direction of” two people at the rink.
While police say they don’t believe the coach intended to use the weapon to harm either of the two people toward whom the weapon was pointed, they argue that “the act of possessing the weapon under these circumstances and pointing the weapon were sufficient to bring these charges.”
Police have not released the identities of the state trooper who owned the weapon or the two people toward whom the weapon was pointed. Similarly, the school district has refused to comment on the man’s continued employment as a coach or a teacher, citing school district policy.
The man now faces charges including unlawful possession of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon on school grounds, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and two counts of aggravated assault.
Weapons charges can carry heavy penalties in New Jersey, and they often accompany charges for other acts, like assault. Understanding the complexity of weapons charges is essential in understanding the “big picture” of the charges you face and the best way to address them.
Weapons Charges Lawyer in Camden, New Jersey
If you’re facing criminal charges involving weapons or other items or events, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can help you understand your options and fight for your rights. Attorney Jill R. Cohen fights for the legal rights and reputations for those charged with crimes throughout New Jersey. For a free consultation, contact our office today at 856-242-7177.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
