A Newark man, who is among four facing charges in the fatal Short Hills carjacking, was in court today accused of not having a lawful permit to carry a firearm.
Karif Ford, 33, was found in possession of a loaded handgun after he passed out on the lawn of a Newark home on March 9, 2013.
Police responded to the scene after a 911 call. While the officer checked on Ford, a loaded handgun was observed sticking out of Ford's jacket.
Ford was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon.
The question that lingered today in court was whether Ford "knowingly" possessed the handgun when he passed out making him not guilty or if he did in fact "knowingly" possess the handgun, therefore should face charges.
Ford is also facing murder and other charges in connection with the fatal mall carjacking in Millburn.
He was released on those charges on May 27 after posting his bail through a discount bail deal, according to officials.