Articles Posted in Drug Charges

In July, 41-year-old Cory L. Thompson of Detroit was found guilty on numerous drug charges after being arrested for dealing heroin in Bad Axe. Now, it appears that Thompson will spend at least 13 years in prison following his sentencing hearing last week.

Thompson was arrested in January of this year in Huron County, closely on the heels of seven drug overdoses the majority of which were believed to involve heroin, according to a news article at Ourmidland.com. After receiving a tip the defendant was bringing heroin into Bad Axe, police and the sheriff’s office worked in conjunction in the investigation into the allegations. Law enforcement officials pulled Thompson over in Bad Axe as part of the investigation, and arrested him after finding heroin, crack and powder cocaine, and a loaded handgun in his vehicle.

Thompson, who was on parole at the time of his arrest for felony convictions of carjacking, armed robbery, and weapons/drug violations, was lodged in the county jail on a $300,000 bond. Thompson’s original bond was $100,000, however Huron County Magistrate Jessica L. Testolin raised it after prosecutors argued Thompson was a danger to society as well as a flight risk given his criminal history.

Thompson’s jury trial resulted in his being found guilty on one count of possession with intent to deliver heroin, two counts of delivery of heroin, one count of possession with intent to deliver cocaine, three counts of felony firearm, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The defendant’s lawyer requested the court be lenient in his client’s sentencing, however the judge in the case noted that because three of the charges dictate a 10-year sentence under Michigan law, the court did not have much jurisdiction in sentencing.

The defendant must continue to serve his parole time before beginning to serve three concurrent 10-year sentences for the current charges. Following the completion of the 10-year sentences, Thompson will remain incarcerated for at least three years and two months for the other convictions.

In the state of Michigan drug offenses are punished harshly as the war on drugs continues. Michigan drug crime defense lawyers are fully aware of the aggressive tactics police and prosecutors use in their efforts to “crack down” on drug offenders.

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On Friday September 6, Taylor police raided a home in the 27000 block of Joan Avenue, coming away with what was called a “large haul” of illicit substances according to a news article at The News-Herald.

Friday afternoon at approximately 2:30, more than a dozen officers descended on the home. After knocking on the door and receiving no answer, officers entered the home by ramming the front door. Inside was a 22-year-old male and young boy who the man identified as his nephew. The man’s mother and boyfriend also lived at the residence according to the man, however they were not home at the time police arrived.

Upon searching the house, officers discovered codeine, Xanax, Vicodin, Oxycodone, and other illicit narcotics. In all, about 600 prescription pills were located by police. Also found on the property were more than 180 grams of marijuana, a water bong, digital scale, and two large safes.

While police were searching the home, the 44-year-old boyfriend returned and was patted down by officers. While he was not in possession of any weapons, officers did discover a large amount of cash in his pocket.

After stating to police that the safes located in his girlfriend’s bedroom belonged to him, the man agreed to open them. One of the safes contained marijuana residue, while the other held a substantial amount of cash, numerous bottles of prescription pills which were unlabeled, and marijuana in three gallon-size bags.

According to the news article, drug residue was detected on the money by a police dog. Officers arrested the man for distribution of narcotics and confiscated several items at the home including two flat screen televisions, the cash, and the Chrysler van the man was driving when he arrived at the home.

Penalties for possessing or distributing marijuana or narcotic drugs are severe in the state of Michigan. For example, possessing Vicodin, classified as a Schedule 3 drug, could result in a $2,000 fine and up to two years in jail if convicted. Possession of Oxycodone may leave the accused facing several years to life in prison along with fines of up to $1 million dollars depending on the amount involved. If charged with manufacturing or distribution, defendants face even tougher penalties.

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For several months now, SWET (Southwest Enforcement Team) has been investigating suspected illegal drug activity at a store and two residences in Van Buren County. Recent searches made by authorities resulted in the seizing of illegal marijuana, counterfeit clothing, suspected drug proceeds, and a fully automatic firearm according to a news article at Mlive.com.

Over the last several months, police began investigating claims that the Tranquility Central store in downtown South Haven was selling marijuana illegally under the guise that patients were being provided with medical marijuana. Tranquility Central is allegedly a medical marijuana dispensary, however in April of 2012 police investigations revealed that inside the store was found a digital scale, packaging materials, and finished product marijuana along with a computer and business records.

Last week, 25-year-old Frank Consolino of South Haven was arrested on a felony warrant while three search warrants for narcotics were being executed, according to police. A SWET news release indicated that the search warrants were executed at two homes in Geneva Township, as well as the Tranquility Central store.

The Southwest Enforcement Team is under the supervision of Michigan State Police, and is a team of criminal investigators from multiple jurisdictions. During this months long investigation, undercover detectives claim that the suspects shared the fact that illegal drug activities were being hidden under the guise of providing a service for medical marijuana patients. The detectives also purchased marijuana on multiple occasions from the suspects in their ongoing investigation.

While Frank Consolino was arrested, other suspects’ names had not been released as of September 6. Warrants were being sought by SWET for occupants of the two homes as well as other operators and owners of the business. Police stated that the remaining suspects’ names were being withheld pending arrest warrants and arraignment.

Crimes involving the illegal sale or distribution of marijuana will leave those convicted facing serious consequences. Penalties include jail time, substantial fines, and more. How harsh the punishment an individual faces will depend on several factors including criminal history and the type/amount of drug possessed.

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On Monday evening September 2, deputies arrived at a Gobles home after being called to the scene of a domestic dispute. Upon arriving, authorities located numerous meth labs on the property, according to a news article at Mlive.com. A two-year-old girl was removed from the home when deputies suspected the girl’s mother, who is 29 years old, was under the influence of methamphetamine.

A 24-year-old male was allegedly involved in the domestic disturbance, however he was not present at the residence located in the 300 block of E. Main Street when police arrived. Upon seeing the 2-year-old girl, deputies contacted Children’s Protective Services; the toddler was temporarily removed from the suspect’s custody.

The woman gave her consent for deputies to search the home; upon executing the search, they discovered gas generators in the garage area of the home, and several one pot methamphetamine vessels. The Van Buren County Narcotics bureau collected the meth lab components for disposal. The bureau’s report will be sent to the Van Buren County Prosecutor’s Office for review so it can be determined whether charges of operating and maintaining a meth lab may be filed.

Methamphetamine is a Schedule II drug, which means the penalties for a conviction of maintaining or operating a meth lab are extremely serious. Penalties may include fines of up to $25,000, up to 20 years in prison, or both. Penalties may be even more severe depending on other factors such as criminal history, where the alleged offense took place, or whether the accused had firearms in his/her possession. In recent years, police and prosecutors have become over-zealous in their pursuit of individuals who allegedly create or manufacture drugs, often prosecuting innocent people for possessing ingredients which may be used in the manufacture of meth such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine.

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Recently, two Caseville Township men were bound over to circuit court after preliminary exams revealed sufficient evidence of their involvement in what police say was a heroin dealing ring. Jeff Hatch and Brandon Fabyan, both 31 years old, are to be arraigned on September 16. Hatch is charged with possession of heroin with intent to deliver; Fabyan is charged with distributing an imitation controlled substance, according to a news article at the Huron County View.

Two other men were also arrested in connection with the heroin dealing operation, 34-year-old Rollie Smith of Caseville, and 33-year-old Anthony Spencer of Bad Axe.

In June, two search warrants were executed which resulted in police recovering drug paraphernalia, prescription drugs, heroin, and almost $4,500 in cash. A lengthy investigation led to the arrests.

Deputy Ryan Swartz, lead investigator with the Huron County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement unit, testified that there was a ‘significant amount’ of heroin found in Hatch’s home, and that if sold by the tenth of a gram, would be valued at more than $10,000.

At the preliminary exam, a confidential informant who is reportedly a recovering addict desiring to eliminate the sale of drugs in the western upper Thumb area of Michigan, identified the four men as those who sold her drugs.

Huron County Sheriff Kelly J. Hanson said that even though there are other dealers in the area who are trying to fill the void left by the arrests, he did not want county residents to be worried about being overrun by heroin addicts.

As of last news reports, Hatch was being held on a 10 % of $100,000 bond; Fabyan bonded out of jail on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond.

Michigan drug dealing attorneys know that those who are convicted on charges of heroin possession with intent will face serious and even life-changing consequences. Even if the amount of heroin involved in this case is less than 50 grams, Hatch could face fines of up to $25,000 and up to 20 years in jail.

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On Sunday evening September 1, a 42-year-old Bloomingdale man was pulled over by Van Buren County sheriff’s deputies after it was observed the man, who was driving a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, was driving erratically. Authorities claim the man was weaving in and out of his lane, according to a news article at Mlive.com.

A news release issued by the Sheriff’s office indicated that deputies watched the driver of the motorcycle, who was leaning to the point that they feared the driver was going to fall off. The incident took place at approximately 9 p.m. in the area of Rumery and West streets.

Deputies claim that the driver of the motorcycle increased his speed and pulled off into a private driveway after spotting the police cruiser, which turned around in order to apprehend the motorcyclist. Deputies said he did this in order to avoid contact with police. The news release contained information regarding deputies performing dexterity tests on the driver once he was apprehended; those tests indicated that the driver of the bike was under the influence of drugs.

The man allegedly told deputies that he had taken numerous medications including Flexeril, Vicodin, and morphine. Upon searching the man, deputies stated they found marijuana, methamphetamine, and a small amount of heroin. He was arrested at the scene; his name was not released at the time of print. He was lodged at the Van Buren County Jail on possession of meth, marijuana, and heroin, and suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs.

While there is no indication whether charges have been filed, Michigan drug crime attorneys know the serious penalties individuals convicted of possessing or distributing illegal drugs and narcotics face. On its own, possession of heroin in amounts of less than 50 grams may leave the defendant facing fines of as much as $25,000, four years in prison, or both.

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On Monday August 26, a 23-year-old Ithaca man was arrested after authorities found what they believed to be components for manufacturing methamphetamine in a white Dodge Caravan. After his arrest, the Midland County Sheriff’s Office was preparing to recommend to prosecutors that he be charged with possession and meth manufacturing, according to a news article at Mlive.com. Pending his arraignment, the suspect is currently lodged at the Midland County Jail.

On the 26th, Sgt. Michael Sutherlund of the sheriff’s department was patrolling when he came across the white van, which appeared to have been sitting in the area of Magrudder and Kent near Jasper for quite some time, according to sheriff’s department reports. Sutherlund was patrolling the around between 10:30 and 11:00 p.m. following recent larceny complaints when he saw the van sitting at an intersection.

When the driver of the white Dodge Caravan saw the patrol car, he turned into a private driveway and then got out of the van, according to police. Upon being questioned, the suspect told police he was searching for a friend who lived in the area. Police then checked with residents, and determined the person who the suspect had named did not reside there.

Police apparently became suspicious at this point and requested permission to search the van; the suspect complied. Upon searching the vehicle, police found filters, lithium batteries, plastic bottles, drain cleaners, and a white crystal-type substance which was determined to be methamphetamine after field testing. The suspect was transported to the Midland County Jail after being arrested. Michigan State Police and the Bay Area Narcotics Enforcement Team assisted the sheriff’s department.

Manufacturing methamphetamine or any Schedule 1 or 2 drug in the state is considered a very serious criminal offense. As all Michigan drug possession lawyers know, the penalties for these types of crimes include steep fines and long-term jail sentences, among other things.

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In April of this year, 45-year-old Dennis Neil Myers of Waterloo Township was arraigned on a charge of manufacturing 20 or more marijuana plants at his home located at 12351 Territorial Road. Law enforcement officials searched the home and allegedly found plastic-covered walls and grow lights in two rooms at the home. Myers once had a medical marijuana card according to a news article at Mlive.com, but it has since expired.

In May, Jackson County District Judge Michael Klaeren agreed to consider the validity of a search warrant issued in the case. Andrew Kirkpatrick, Myers’ defense attorney, contends the warrant used to search his client’s home was invalid. In a May news article, it was stated that the case against Klaeren, who is accused of having more than 30 marijuana plants in his home, may be dismissed if the judge agrees and evidence is suppressed.

News reports claim that Waterloo Township police Chief Tom Cottrell became suspicious upon learning that after a passerby reported a fire near the entrance of the home, Myers would not allow firefighters inside. Cottrell also alleged that when he want to Myers’ home, the defendant would not allow him inside. Condensation on some of the windows at the residence also concerned Cottrell.

Testimony in the case had been ongoing in recent weeks; the judge now says he will hear additional testimony on September 11 regarding the legitimacy of the search warrant, which was secured by Cottrell after Myers refused to let firefighters, himself, and others inside the home following the fire, which charred the front porch and melted the home’s siding.

Myers’ defense attorney argues the events are not substantial enough to justify a search warrant; Assistant Prosecutor Matt Way disagrees, stating that combined, the suspicious activity amounts to probable cause.

If the charges against Myers stand, Michigan drug crime defense lawyers know he will face up to seven years in prison.

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Scotty McConnell, a 26-year-old Paw Paw resident, was arrested on Thursday August 22 in connection with operating a meth lab and other drug charges, according to a news article at Mlive.com. Law enforcement authorities received a tip regarding the whereabouts of McConnell, who had been wanted on drug charges.

McConnell was located at the Applewood Mobile Home Community according to the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office. He was wanted by Michigan State Police on bench warrants for failing to appear in court on original charges of amphetamine possession and assault, and meth possession according to a news release issued by the sheriff’s office.

After receiving the tip, state troopers and sheriff’s deputies went to the trailer park located in the 53400 block of County Road 687. Upon arriving, authorities found McConnell and a methamphetamine lab. McConnell allegedly attempted to flee out the back door of the trailer while authorities were speaking with his wife. McConnell was ordered out after running to a back bedroom in the trailer home, and was arrested. During the course of the arrest, police allegedly located components for manufacturing methamphetamine; they then secured a search warrant. After executing the warrant, deputies and troopers found numerous components for manufacturing meth.

McConnell was placed under arrest by authorities for the outstanding warrants; he was also charged with operating and maintaining a meth lab. Another woman who was not named was also arrested at the trailer on suspicion of operating and maintaining a meth lab, according to the article.

Michigan drug possession lawyers are well aware of the serious criminal penalties individuals face if convicted of operating/maintaining a meth lab. Depending on the amount of drug involved and other factors, penalties may include between 20 years and life in prison, and fines that range from several thousand dollars up to $1,000,000. Drug crimes are punished severely in the state of Michigan.

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According to a Cass County Drug Enforcement Team news release, four people have been arrested on multiple methamphetamine-related charges after narcotics investigators obtained search warrants and searched two homes, one in Calvin Township and one in Mason Township.

A news article at Mlive.com states that 42-year-old Bonita King and 41-year-old John Pillow who live at a home in the 69000 block of Cassopolis Road were arraigned on August 14 in 4th District Court. King has been charged with possession of methamphetamine. Pillow has been charged with possession of meth, maintaining a drug house, conspiracy to deliver methamphetamine, and conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Both were lodged at the Cass County Jail. King’s bond was set at $15,000, Pillow’s at $40,000.

The other two individuals facing methamphetamine-related charges are 42-year-old Kristina May and 45-year-old Basil Rowe, who live in the 67000 block of Calvin Center Road in Calvin Township. May was charged with maintaining a drug house and possession of meth. Rowe was charged with manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of meth and maintaining a drug house, operating and maintaining a methamphetamine lab, and other meth-related charges. The two were lodged at the Cass County Jail. May’s bond was set at $20,000, Rowe’s at $60,000.

Although news reports do not indicate the amount of drugs involved, Michigan drug possession lawyers know that these types of offenses are punished severely in the state of Michigan. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II drug, defined as those substances or chemicals with a high potential for addiction or abuse. This means the penalties for those convicted will be extremely serious. In fact, an individual convicted of possessing more than 1,000 grams faces fines of up to $1,000,000 and possible life imprisonment.

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