On Friday April 18, Alexandria, LA police officers were patrolling an area when they noticed a man who had an active warrant driving a vehicle. After making contact with Adam Nick, officers noticed that the suspect seemed to be extremely nervous. They soon realized why Nick was nervous after discovering a digital scale which was in plain view in the floorboard of Nick’s vehicle.
Police arrested Nick before requesting a K-9 unit come to the scene. Narcotic investigators were notified after the dogs alerted to what was suspected to be heroin in the vehicle. Nick was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, and possession/distribution of a schedule II substance (heroin, cocaine) according to news reports at KALB News Channel 5.
Following Nick’s arrest police searched a Pineville area residence and discovered that they believed to be heroin in small pieces of tinfoil and plastic bags. In all, it was believed that Sean and Ashley Bennett had 16 grams of heroin. The two were arrested and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, and obstruction of justice.
Another man, Derric Smith, was also arrested in connection with drug possession in the area. Smith was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession and distribution of marijuana, possession and distribution of a schedule II substance (heroin, cocaine), and possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid.
The news article did not indicate if all of the arrests were related, however it did say that the investigation continues. All four individuals are residents of Pineville.
Michigan drug crime attorneys know that as the rate of drug offenses continue to rise, police and lawmakers increase their efforts to crack down on offenders; the punishment for those found guilty of possession or distribution of drugs is extremely harsh. Whether an individual is accused of manufacturing meth or distributing marijuana, heroin, or cocaine, the criminal penalties are very serious. Some of these penalties include substantial fines and prison time; in fact, certain drug crimes leave those convicted facing up to life in prison. In Michigan, individuals found guilty of possession of less than 50 grams of heroin with intent to deliver the drug will face up to 20 years in prison and/or fines of up to $25,000.
There are numerous defense strategies which may be effective in defending a client against drug charges; there are also other options besides pleading not guilty and going to trial. It is imperative that you speak with a skilled Michigan drug crime defense lawyer if you have been arrested, or are under investigation for a drug offense.