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Jets Football Star Sheldon Richardson Arrested
Resisting arrest and traffic violations, including driving at 143mph, are the reasons for this football superstar’s arrest on July 14, 2015. Richardson was captured on police radar three separate occasions during the time the incident occurred doing 122, 135, and 143 miles per hour. In addition to excessive speeding, Richardson also attempted to evade police by driving through a red light, weaving through traffic, and turning off the vehicle’s lights. Cops were able to keep up with the car when Richardson used his brakes. The prosecutor’s office in St. Charles County, Missouri made a statement at the end of July that Richardson was being charged with eluding arrest and numerous traffic violations.
In New Jersey, resisting arrest is generally a disorderly persons offense subject to a fine of up to $1,000 plus assessments paid to Victims of Crime Compensation Board and to the Safe Neighborhood Services Fund. There is also a potential of a six-month jail sentence, even for first time offenders. However, as in the case with Richardson, using a motor vehicle in an attempt to elude arrest can also come with a suspension of your license for at least six months. This offense can be upgraded to a third or fourth degree offense if the person resisting arrest uses or threatens force or violence or if the person creates a substantial risk of physical injury to another. If convicted of a third degree offense for resisting arrest, the potential punishment ranges from 3 to 5 years in prison and fines, while a fourth degree offense can be punishable up to 18 months in prison in addition to fines.
Speeding violations in New Jersey have varying fines and penalties, depending on the amount of speeding over the limit. Sheldon Richardson was captured going 143mph, likely to be at least 70mph over the speed limit. In New Jersey, that kind of excessive speeding (which is termed such one you are speeding over 30mph) comes with 5 points on your license, a mandatory court appearance, and fines starting well over $100. There is also potential for a Racing on Highway violation, which is also 5 points and comes with hefty fines. With just two of those offenses, Sheldon Richardson may lose his license for a quite some time. Another violation may be failing to stop at traffic light, which would come with more fines and 2 points.
Despite all that, there were even more potential charges for Richardson (yet the prosecutor refrained from doing so), focusing on the traffic violations and the resisting arrest offense. His arraignment is set for October 27th later this year. The lesson? Whether in New Jersey or Missouri, be cautious about your driving behaviors. One bad decision can result in multiple violations.
If you recently received a traffic violation and feel that it was issued without reason, it is important to have an experienced attorney to help you avoid steep fines and potential jail time. The Law Office of Leon Matchin is here to help you. With a focus on traffic and criminal related matters, Mr. Matchin has the experience and knowledge to strategize with you about what defenses will provide you with the best possible outcome. Call today at (732) 662-7658 for a free consultation.
