Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Wednesday February 5, police discovered 105 grams of marijuana upon searching a Hartford couple’s home. The two individuals, who were not named, include a 20-year-old female and a 21-year-old male, according to news reports at Mlive.com. Investigators claim that a toddler was present at the residence as well.
Authorities received a tip that marijuana was being sold from the home. Hartford city police obtained a search warrant which was executed at approximately 9:30 a.m. at the residence located on Austin Street. The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office narcotics unit then began an investigation and seized approximately 3.5 ounces of marijuana, along with smoking paraphernalia, a digital scale, and packaging supplies.
The two occupants of the home were not arrested at the time, but are facing charges of maintaining a drug house. Once the investigation is complete the details will be forwarded to prosecutors who will review charges of maintaining a drug house and possession with intent to deliver marijuana. In addition, the case will be sent to CPS (Child Protective Services) so that the agency can investigate the circumstances of a one-year-old child living at a home where drug activity is allegedly taking place.
Maintaining a drug house and marijuana possession with intent to sell or deliver are both very serious charges in the state of Michigan. Even those who are convicted of possessing less than 5 kg of marijuana will face up to four years in prison and fines of as much as $20,000. While individuals may or may not face prison time of up to two years for maintaining a drug house, he or she may still be ordered to pay a civil fine of up to $25,000 if penalized by the state.
In cases such as the above, CPS may also decide to take any children out of the home and environment. The punishment for marijuana charges is substantial; in order to protect your freedom and future, it is vital that you contact an experienced and aggressive Michigan drug crimes defense attorney right away.