Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
According to news reports at wwmt.com News Channel 3 and Mlive.com, a recent traffic stop led to the discovery of a marijuana grow operation. Van Buren County deputies stopped a man, who has not been named pending an arrest and charges, in the 54000 block of CR 687 in Hartford Township on Thursday, December 19. The man was stopped for vision obstruction and equipment violations.
Upon searching the 33-year-old man’s vehicle, sheriff’s deputies found 25 grams of marijuana both on the driver and inside the vehicle. Further investigation led deputies to discover even more marijuana at a residence located in Keeler Township in the 67000 block of Territorial Road. According to reports, deputies found an additional 3.5 pounds of marijuana and 10 marijuana plants. Authorities believe they discovered a marijuana grow operation.
Details of the case have been forwarded to prosecutors, who will determine whether an arrest is warranted and charges filed.
Drug offenses are prosecuted vigorously in the state of Michigan, regardless of how minor or serious the situation may seem. Individuals who are caught using marijuana may face misdemeanor charges, which can result in a $100 fine and up to 90 days in jail. While possession of marijuana is also a misdemeanor, those charged with cultivating or growing marijuana and who are not licensed as a medical marijuana caregiver or patient may be charged with a felony offense, which may result in criminal penalties including fines of as much as $20,000 and up to 15 years in prison. In fact, individuals who are found to possess a large number of marijuana plants may be fined up to $10 million dollars.
Being arrested for marijuana possession or cultivation or even charged with a crime does not always lead to a conviction. Anyone charged with a drug crime is innocent until proven guilty. Depending on the situation, there are several options you may want to consider; a skilled Michigan drug crimes defense attorney will discuss your options, explain the criminal justice process, and keep you apprised at every stage so that criminal penalties may be avoided or reduced. In some cases a criminal defense lawyer may be able to prevent charges being filed. Ultimately, your freedom, career, and reputation may be at risk if you choose not to discuss your situation with an attorney.