Paterson NJ police recently arrested two people accused of possessing several packages of marijuana in their motor vehicle.

According to law enforcement, the suspects were pulled over by police while driving along Michigan Avenue in Paterson, New Jersey. Two Passaic County Sheriff’s officers reportedly saw that the suspects’ vehicle, a black Lexus, had tinted windows, which is a violation of the law. So the police officers pulled over the car.

When police officers ran a background check on the driver, they reportedly discovered that he did not have a valid NJ driver’s license.

Paterson police subsequently searched the suspects’ car and allegedly found multiple packages containing 147 grams of marijuana. Police also allegedly discovered $2,357 that may represent the proceeds of illegal drug activity.

The driver and a 17-year-old passenger were subsequently arrested and charged with drug offenses, including possession of marijuana.

If the adult suspect is ultimately convicted of marijuana possession, he would be in store for severe criminal penalties. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(a)(3), anyone who possesses 50 grams or more of pot can be charged with a fourth degree crime. A conviction on fourth degree possession of marijuana charges could lead to a sentence of up to 18 months in NJ State Prison.

After being placed under arrest and processed, the suspects secured their release from police custody on their own recognizance.

For additional information about this case, read the NJ.com article, “Tinted Windows Leads to Paterson Drug Arrest, Sheriff Says.”