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In order to board a plane, you are required to follow strict protocols, which include showing proper identification, going through security checkpoints, and ensuring your carry-on bags are free from prohibited items. In most cases, if you accidentally have a prohibited item – such as a liquid or gel over 3.4 ounces – the Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) agent will remove the item and throw it away. In some situations, however, having certain items in your carry-on at security can lead to criminal charges.
It may seem like common sense to not bring a potentially dangerous weapon to an airport. However, you would be shocked at how many weapons the TSA recovers on a daily basis from carry-on luggage. The TSA even reports weapons found on its blog and the numbers and different types of weapons are impressive. They can range from firearms to knives to actual grenades.
In many cases, TSA agents claim that people brought such weapons to the airport due to an honest mistake. If the agent believes that you honestly forgot the item was in your bag, they can simply confiscate the item and send you on your way. However, if the agent suspects that you purposely brought certain weapons into the airport with the intention of getting them on a plane, you can be arrested and charged with a criminal offense.
Weapons Offenses in New Jersey
While it is possible to follow specific rules and legally travel with a firearm, it is illegal to possess certain weapons in New Jersey. This means that if you are traveling to or from New Jersey and you have these items, you can be charged with a weapons offense. Prohibited items include:
- Concealed weapons without a New Jersey permit
- Stun guns
- Destructive devices
- Defaced or altered firearms
- Sawed-off shotguns
- Magazines with a large capacity
- Silencers
- Hollow nose bullets
- Switchblades and other knives
- Handcuffs
Weapons possession is commonly charged as a 4th-degree crime, which means potential penalties include a fine up to $10,000 and a maximum of 18 months in prison. It is essential to have a criminal defense attorney helping you defend against these serious allegations.
Call 732-662-7658 today for a free consultation.
If you head off to vacation only to find yourself facing a weapons charge, contact the Law Offices of Leon Matchin as soon as possible. We defend against a wide array of criminal charges and will protect your rights.
