Hudson Valley residents will often be under the impression that drug offenses are generally linked to those who have illegal drugs, like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and even marijuana. However, prescription drugs can also result in drug crime charges with serious consequences.
If there is a combination of street drugs and prescription drugs, there can be major problems. These charges can come during a traffic stop or another type of investigation. Those who are arrested on these charges must be aware of the importance of lodging a strong defense.
A 21-year-old man was arrested on multiple, drug-related charges after a traffic stop. The initial reason for the stop was due to his alleged speeding. When law enforcement investigated, they found multiple kinds of prescription medications, as well as heroin and cocaine.
The man faces numerous charges related to possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and possession of a controlled substance. The allegations fall into the categories of a Class B felony, a Class C felony and a Class A misdemeanor. Law enforcement and prosecutors treat drugs seriously. Those who are charged with felonies must understand what they are up against.
A conviction for selling drugs, whether prescription or street drugs, can not only result in hefty fines and jail time, but also can affect a person’s life forever. Even after serving a jail sentence, it can be difficult to get a job, be admitted to a secondary educational institution and complete other tasks for which a drug conviction is a profound negative.
With a traffic stop, it is important to know that there are viable defenses that can be used, such as questioning the validity of the stop and assessing whether the evidence was gathered legally and within the suspect’s rights. Regardless, a defense must examine every aspect to try to deal with the charges.
In this case, a man was stopped in his car for speeding, and the law enforcement officer found numerous drugs. Felony and misdemeanor charges were filed against the man and he was jailed. Considering everything involved with this case and the potential punishments if there is a conviction, he must begin formulating his defense immediately with help from a qualified lawyer who is experienced in drug cases.
Source: Hudson Valley News Network, “Pleasant Valley Man Arrested Following Traffic Stop,” Kathy Welsh, Aug. 31, 2017