Zero Tolerance for Criminal Trespassing in Atlantic City Casinos
Atlantic City is a hot spot for gamblers and non-gamblers alike. It’s the East Coast’s answer to Las Vegas and provides entertainment of all types for visitors. Casinos, of course, spend big bucks to attract patrons – the more the merrier and more lucrative.
However, make no mistake about it, when you’ve overstayed your welcome in a casino, security officers won’t hesitate to ask you to leave the premises. If you refuse, you can be arrested and charged with criminal trespass. Additionally, if you’ve been asked to leave the premises and you return, you may also face charges.
Trespassing charges can be categorized as disorderly persons offenses or felonies. They may seem like no big deal. However, it’s important to understand that prosecutors in Atlantic City and throughout New Jersey take criminal trespass charges seriously. It’s akin to asking someone to leave your home and having them refuse to leave. It’s your property and you have the right to ask someone to vacate the premises. When they don’t, it’s considered an invasion of your privacy.
Under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3, you can be charged with trespassing even if you didn’t break into the building or area (think locked fence, for example.) If you are found to be on someone else’s property without permission you are acting illegally. Period.
There are three types of trespassing in New Jersey: entering or staying in or on someone’s property when you are not legally permitted to do so; entering the property after you’ve been told to stay away (this includes failing to obey a “no trespassing sign;” and what’s known as “unlawful peering.” Yes, being a Peeping Tom can get you charged with a fourth degree felony charge.
If you are convicted of a trespassing charge, you may face prison time, fines and community service. You can also have your driving privileges suspended in New Jersey.
Arrested and charged with criminal trespassing? Don’t go it alone. Contact a knowledgeable aggressive criminal defense lawyer who will fight for you in court. John W. Tumelty will fight for you by raising possible defenses that will keep you out of jail. Call him today for a free in-person or phone consultation today.
