State v. Zaire J. Cromedy

Summary

The Supreme Court of New Jersey held that N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(j) creates a distinct first‑degree substantive offense and is not subject to the mandatory parole‑ineligibility provisions of the Graves Act. The Court reversed the Appellate Division’s decision and remanded for resentencing consistent with that interpretation. The opinion also clarified the doctrinal distinction between grading provisions and sentencing enhancements.