Violent crime charges downgraded for Rutgers football player

Simple assault is the charge many New Jersey residents may associate with being in a bar fight or some type of physical altercation, such as pushing. However, while “simple” may be in the charge, one should still take this type of assault charge very seriously as it does carry with it a potential six-month jail sentence. That is enough time behind bars to substantially affect a person’s life.

Recently, a Rutgers football player was scheduled to appear in court on a simple assault charge. This was after the second-degree and third-degree charges against the college student were downgraded. Court records also show a robbery charge was dismissed and other indictable charges were downgraded.

In this case, the Rutgers football player is accused of being one of six people involved in an altercation in a home in the Bargaintown section of Egg Harbor Township. This is where a 35-year-old Atlantic City man was allegedly held against his will, assaulted and the contents of his pockets were taken.

Originally, the Rutgers student was facing a number of charges, but many were downgraded and one was dismissed due to a lack of evidence, according to court records.

Previously, the Rutgers Athletic Department said the case was being monitored. This could lead someone to believe there may be school and sports-related consequences if he is convicted on the simple assault and false imprisonment charges.

Both of these charges — simple assault and false imprisonment — are disorderly persons offenses. Each carries potential six-month jail sentences. As mentioned earlier, this is enough time behind bars to substantially impact a person’s life.

In addition to the actual jail time, being convicted of a violent crime can also really come back to hurt a person when it comes to background checks and future employment opportunities. This is why it is important to talk with an attorney after being arrested in order to see what legal options are available. In some cases, this could lead to charges being dismissed or downgraded.

Source: Press of Atlantic City, “Rutgers football player from Egg Harbor Township in court Tuesday in alleged assault,” Derek Harper, Oct. 14, 2013