A Union County College student has been arrested and charged with bringing imitation firearms into a classroom on the College’s main campus in Cranford Monday morning, acting Union County Prosecutor Michael A. Monahan and Cranford Police Chief Ryan Greco jointly announced today.
Officials said Eric Jacobs, 20, of Millburn, Essex County, is charged with fourth-degree possession of an imitation firearm for an unlawful purpose and creating a hazardous condition, a disorderly persons offense.
According to authorities, at approximately 10 a.m. Monday morning, a College employee notified on-site public safety personnel regarding a person on the campus who appeared to be carrying a weapon, according to the preliminary investigation.
Cranford Police Department patrol units responded to the scene immediately and arrested Jacobs without incident.
According to police, three imitation firearms, including one resembling a rifle and two others resembling handguns, were recovered from his person.
Authorities said Jacobs remains in custody, and this matter remains under investigation, with the filing of additional charges possible.
Anyone with any information is being urged to contact Cranford Police Department Detective Derek Farbanec at 908-709-7347.
Convictions on fourth-degree criminal charges are commonly punishable by up to 18 months in state prison.
These criminal charges are mere accusations. Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.