State of New Jersey, Plaintiff-Respondent v. Ronald Lee, A/K/A John Davis, Defendant-Appellant

Summary

The Supreme Court of New Jersey affirmed the Appellate Division, holding that the statutory phrase “intent to use for an unlawful purpose” is not an element of the offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d and that the statute is neither vague nor overbroad. The Court reasoned that the legislature intended to criminalize possession of weapons in inappropriate circumstances without requiring proof of unlawful intent, and that the statute provides adequate notice and does not infringe protected conduct. Justice Clifford dissented, arguing that the statute is unconstitutionally vague and overbroad and should be reversed and remanded.