A New Jersey man is facing several serious criminal charges. The state Department of Agriculture was reportedly involved in an investigation that prompted Raritan Township police to take the 52-year-old man into custody. The formal accusations include multiple weapons violations, as well as drug charges and cruelty to animals.
Police say that the man had an assault rifle in his possession. They also suspect the man of buying gun parts for the purpose of assembling a firearm without a serial number. Investigators also claim that there were large-capacity firearm magazines in the man’s possession, which resulted in a 4th degree prohibited weapons charge.
Dozens of animals on the man’s property
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture is said to have been part of the investigation because of animals that were on the man’s property. Police say there were 71 animals in total that were existing in poor living conditions. Horses, cows, goats, pigs and sheep were seized by authorities.
Prosecutors have also filed drug charges against the man
The defendant is also facing a 4th degree CDS (controlled dangerous substance) charge, which is said to have been marijuana. In New Jersey, 4th possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana qualifies as a felony offense and is punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. No further information was provided as to the amount of marijuana police say the man had in his possession. Anyone facing similar charges may request legal support to plan a defense and discuss which strategies might be best to help mitigate the circumstances.