Facing criminal allegations could greatly impact the life of the accused. In addition to facing potential serious consequences for the alleged crime, the personal and professional life of the accused could suffer tremendously due to pending drug charges. Depending on the details of the crime, a drug charge could carry severe consequences, making it imperative that defendants consider the defense options available to them.
Authorities in New York recently arrested an executive of Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. for his supposed link to a cocaine ring. The executive, who was named the head of marketing in 2009 and recently took the title of chief creative and development officer, is one of over a dozen people charged with alleged cocaine purchases occurring during the past year.
The New York City Police Commissioner announced that eighteen repeat customers were indicted for allegedly purchasing cocaine at various locations that ranged from restaurants, bars, delis, pharmacies, apartments, hotels and workplaces. Supposedly, three men who used livery services to deliver more than $75,000 worth of cocaine to customers throughout New York ran the cocaine ring.
The repeat customers that were indicted were charged with drug possession, which is a misdemeanor that carries no more than one year in prison. Those accused of being part of the ring face more serious charges such as drug distribution charges. Since the allegation, the Chipotle executive has been placed on administrative leave.
Because drug charges can carry serious penalties and could damage the reputation and professional life of those accused, it is important that defendants take these charges seriously. A strong defense could help reduce the charges or penalties, even helping the defendant dismiss the charges altogether.
Source: Agweb.com, “Chipotle Executive Put on Leave After Report of Drug Charges,” July 1, 2016