Manchester Resident Faces Litany of Drug Charges

A twenty year old Manchester man is facing a long list of drug charges after authorities arrested him with a friend whose speeding violation drew the attention of police. Late on the night of Tuesday, June 9, officers allegedly searched the vehicle that the pair were traveling in after spotting hypodermic needles and empty bags commonly used for controlled substances, which were apparently in plain view during the traffic stop. The defendant is up against charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a hypodermic needle, and being under the influence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS). However, since he was not the driver of the vehicle, he will fortunately avoid the additional charges his companion is facing for driving under the influence of a controlled and dangerous substance.

Under N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2, which prohibits possession of any item intended for ingesting a CDS, the accused faces potential penalties for possession of drug paraphernalia. This offense, which is considered a disorderly persons offense, carries penalties including up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $1,000, as well as a possible driver’s license suspended for 6 months to 2 years.

Additionally, under N.J.S.A. 2C:36-6, could be subject to further penalties for the more specifically deliniated offense of possessing an hypodermic needle, which is also classified as a disorderly persons offense. Similar to those for possession drug paraphernalia in general, potential penalties for this offense could include up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $1,000, as well as a potential driver’s license suspension of anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.

For the charges of being under the influence under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(b), the defendamnt will face further potential penalties. Another disorderly persons offense, this charge carries potential penalties including a fine of up to $1,000, as well as a requirement for an offender who is convicted of this charge or pleads guilty to this charge must pay additional fees or for various assessments, such as to the Safe Neighborhood Fund, and court costs. New Jersey law also dictates a mandatory Drug Offense License Suspension in connection with this offense, requiring a mandatory loss of driving privileges for 6 months to 2 years.