Police officers in Mount Olive Township, Morris County arrested a 21 year-old East Brunswick man for the possession of prescription pills on April 9. Officers initiated a traffic stop after observing the suspect tailgating another vehicle while traveling south on Route 206. Upon approaching the vehicle, police immediately noticed drug paraphernalia on the passenger side of the car. In addition to drug paraphernalia, police also found a small metal container holder nine oxycodone pills. The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of oxycodone, possession of drug paraphernaila, possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) in a motor vehicle, following too closely and improper safety glass. The suspect was released from custody pending a court appearance.

Possession and distribution of prescription narcotics is an extremely serious offense in the state of New Jersey which carries stiff penalties. In the state of New Jersey it is illegal to possession prescription drugs without a valid prescription. N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.5. Generally, a conviction for possession of a prescription narcotic is punishable with up to 5 years in state prison and a fine of up to $35,000. N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. It is also a criminal offense to possess drug paraphernalia. State law defines drug paraphernalia as equipment, products and materials of any kind which are used or intended for use in cultivating, manufacturing, concealing or ingesting a controlled dangers substance (CDS). N.J.S.A. 2C:36-1. Possession of drug paraphernalia is punishable with up to six months in jail. It is also important to note that all of these offenses carry with them a possible drivers license suspension for up to two years. Because of the severe punishments that accompany prescription drug charges, it is important to contact a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who is experienced in defending narcotics cases and can ensure the best possible outcome.

Sources

NJ.com, "Mount Olive police: oxycodone bust during traffic stop," Apr. 11, 2012.

N.J.S.A. 2C:35-1 et al. (2012).

N.J.S.A. 2C:36-1 et al. (2012).