Morris Prosecutor: Kinnelon Man Sentenced on Multiple Weapons and Drug Charges

Published on September 20, 2018

Authorities Seized a Machine Gun, Assault Rifle and Other Weapons

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces the sentencing of Richard J. Spielman, 46, of Kinnelon, on a variety of weapons and drug charges stemming from a March arrest and subsequent guilty plea.(JPG, 11KB)

An investigation led by detectives from the Butler and Kinnelon police departments culminated on March 11, 2018 with the seizure of one fully automatic machine gun, one assault rifle, two shotguns, four rifles, one loaded handgun, high capacity magazines, silencers, throwing stars, and metal knuckles.

They also seized 79 marijuana plants in various stages of growth, approximately 10 pounds of marijuana, mushrooms, , drug distribution related paraphernalia, nearly $6,800 in currency, and a 2006 Jeep.(PNG, 23KB)

On July 9, Spielman entered guilty pleas before Superior Court Judge Catherine I. Enright to first degree Maintenance of a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility and Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Machine Gun. As part of the plea agreement, Mr. Spielman forfeited nearly $6,800 in currency.

On Wednesday (Sept. 19), Superior Court Judge Stephen J. Taylor sentenced Spielman on the drug charges to six years in New Jersey State Prison. Spielman is required to serve three years before becoming eligible for parole. Judge Taylor also imposed a concurrent three-year state prison term, with 12 months of parole ineligibility, on the weapons count.

Prosecutor Knapp stated: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office will continue to seek incarceration of convicted for-profit drug dealers and those who possess weapons in contravention of state and federal law. We hope that the sentences the court imposed today serve to deter not just this defendant but others who engage in similar criminal activity.

The investigation was led by Lieutenant Michael Moeller and Detective Jarred Schmiedhauser from the Butler Police Department, and Detective Sergeant David Crouthamel and Detective Rick McDonnell from the Kinnelon Police Department, with assistance from the Morris County Sheriff's Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Erin Callahan.

Inquiries should be directed to Public Information Officer Peter DiGennaro at pressinquiry@co.morris.nj.us or 973-829-8159.