Passaic County authorities announced that based upon an investigation by the Passaic Police Department, in conjunction with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Mr. Ernest Fuentes, 19, from Passaic was arrested in relation to a shooting incident that took place on January 1, in the area of Third Street and Mercer Street.
Police say Ernest Fuentes is charged with Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, Second Degree and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Second Degree
According to police, on January 1, members of the Passaic Police Department were dispatched to the area of Third Street and Mercer Street on a report of shots fired. Based on the investigation, Ernest Fuentes was identified as a participant in the shooting and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
Police say on January 5, at approximately 10:20 p.m., members of the Passaic Police Department arrested Ernest Fuentes in Passaic.
The sentencing exposure for Ernest Fuentes on Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun is 5-10 years New Jersey State Prison with a minimum of 42 months before parole eligibility pursuant to the Graves Act and on Second Degree Possession of a Handgun for an Unlawful Purpose, it is 5-10 years New Jersey State Prison with 42 months before parole eligibility pursuant to the Graves Act.
The State has filed a motion for pretrial detention that will be heard by a Superior Court Judge.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact police on their tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact the Passaic Police Detective Bureau at 973-365-3900.