Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Saturday January 30, police in Bridgeport, CT executed a warrant which resulted in the arrest of a 30-year-old man as the city’s Violent Crime Reduction Task Force undertook a major drug and gun bust.
Police executed the warrant on Aldine Avenue, where they found what was described as an elaborate marijuana growing facility in the basement, complete with high intensity lamps, agriculture supplies, grow tents, and a mechanical irrigation and exhaust system. Jack Kelhoffer was arrested after police seized numerous drugs and substances including 23 bottles of anabolic steroids, 250 human growth hormone tablets, 85 marijuana plants, and more than 500 grams of harvested marijuana. Xanax tablets were also found on the property, along with 21 rifles and hand guns found in two safes.
Kelhoffer faces numerous drug-related charges including possession of marijuana over 4 ounces, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, cultivation of marijuana, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell.
When police arrived at the Bridgeport home, Kelhoffer refused to open the door; police breached the door and found the suspect standing in a kitchen/living room area, where a loaded Glock semi-automatic handgun lay on a nearby table. There was no word on whether Kelhoffer faces any charges related to the guns.
Cultivating marijuana and possession of marijuana with intent to sell are serious allegations. In Michigan, those who face cultivation charges for possessing marijuana plants will face a minimum jail sentence of four years, along with fines of as much as $20,000. However, an individual may be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison and/or $10 million in fines depending on the number of plants in his or her possession.
Additionally, those in Michigan who are charged with possession of marijuana with intent to deliver (or sell) involving between 20 and 200 marijuana plants will face a maximum of 7 years in jail along with fines of up to $500,000. Other factors including criminal history, where the crime took place, whether firearms were present, etc. may result in enhanced penalties.
Regardless of how hopeless the situation seems to be, a seasoned Michigan drug crimes attorney will protect your legal rights, thoroughly investigate the charges against you, and prevent prosecutors and police from using common tactics that make matters even worse. There are effective defense strategies that may be developed to protect your freedom and reputation. Do not face criminal charges without the guidance and support of a skilled defense lawyer.