The police in Camden County recently arrested a 26-year-old man in connection with a homicide. While it is unclear what charges the State intends to file against the man, the limited facts surrounding his arrest suggest that he will most likely be charged with first-degree murder. Murder is a grave offense, and people charged with murder or other homicide crimes often feel as if they have no chance of retaining their right to walk free. There are often numerous defenses a party can assert to avoid a conviction, however. For example, if the police made mistakes during the course of the investigation that led to the charges, a defendant may be able to argue that the State should be precluded from using the evidence gleaned from the investigation at trial. The precise defenses available will vary depending on the facts of the case, and it is wise for anyone charged with murder or any other crime in Camden County to seek the assistance of a capable Camden County criminal defense attorney.
Facts Regarding the Homicide
It is reported that the victim of the alleged homicide, a 67-year-old man, was found on August 15th, after he had been shot. He died later that day at an area hospital. The police apprehended the suspect in Yeadon, Pennsylvania, and he is currently awaiting his extradition hearing. No details were provided regarding a potential motive or the investigation that led to the suspect’s arrest.
Murder Charges in New Jersey
Generally, to establish guilt in a first-degree murder case, the State must prove that the defendant, either purposely or knowingly, caused the death of another individual, or caused serious bodily harm that led to another person’s death. In other words, merely showing that a person caused another individual’s death by acting recklessly or carelessly is not sufficient to sustain a first-degree murder conviction.
Each element of a murder charge in New Jersey must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest burden of proof. While there is no precise definition for this term, it has been interpreted to mean that a rational person presented with the evidence of the case could come to no reasonable conclusion other than that the defendant is guilty. People convicted of first-degree murder may be sentenced to thirty years to life in prison. In some instances, they may be sentenced without the possibility of parole.
Speak to a Seasoned Camden County Criminal Defense Attorney
Homicide is one of the most serious crimes a person can be accused of committing, but merely because the State believes it has sufficient evidence to charge a person with a homicide offense does not mean it will be able to convince a jury that the person is guilty. If you are accused of murder, it is critical to retain an aggressive attorney who will fight tirelessly on your behalf. The seasoned Camden County criminal lawyers of The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall are mindful of the importance of obtaining a favorable outcome in a murder case, and if you hire us, we will zealously pursue the best legal result available under the circumstances. Contact us for a free and confidential consultation.
