Rowan University students were enjoying late-night Halloween weekend parties when a string of violent incidences occurred. Students in the area recounted hearing shots fired at one of the parties. Glassboro, New Jersey, Police reported that residents had asked someone to leave their house party, which resulted in a fight outside the home and, ultimately, one student being shot in the foot. Elsewhere in the university neighborhood, three people were stabbed at a different Halloween party. Fortunately, none of the victims were seriously injured, and the perpetrator was arrested and charged.

Crimes on College Campuses

Crimes are not uncommon on or near university campuses. With hundreds or thousands of young people and frequent alcohol use and differing opinions, it is no surprise that arguments break out and get out of control.

Common crimes on or near campuses include physical assault, sexual assault, robbery, and harassment. The National Center for Education Statistics cites forcible sexual offenses and burglaries as the most prevalent crimes on college campuses, with about 44 percent of all crimes reported being forcible sexual offenses and 32 percent being burglaries.

Fortunately, crimes like those near Rowan University are much less common. The shooting and stabbings are considered aggravated assault, which makes up only about 7 percent of on-campus crimes. Aggravated assault is defined as inflicting serious or significant bodily injury or assaulting someone with a deadly weapon.

Consequences for Violent Crimes in New Jersey

Under New Jersey law, aggravated assault may be charged as either a second-, third-, or fourth-degree offense based on the specifics of the individual case. A second-degree offense is punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000. A third-degree offense is punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. Lastly, a fourth-degree offense is punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

If you are a university student who has committed an aggravated assault, you will likely be facing both criminal charges and additional disciplinary charges from your university.

The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team Can Help

While college students may legally be adults, their decisions and actions do not always reflect their adulthood. If you are a college student who has committed a crime, you should not have your entire life ruined by one mistake made in your youth.

The Lento Law Firm understands that young people make mistakes; our New Jersey Criminal Defense Team will fight to minimize the consequences of your mistake. Whether you face legal or disciplinary action from your university, we will do everything possible to ensure your future is not jeopardized. Retain the Lento Law Firm today by calling 888.535.3686 or using our online form to set up a confidential consultation.