Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
UPSET (Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team) arrested three individuals following a meth bust in Ishpeming on Monday, November 26. The three suspects were lodged at the Marquette County Jail pending arraignment on the charges, which include conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine and possession of meth components.
The suspects who were arrested include 32-year-old Kelly Kathleen Warlin, 31-year-old Justin Carl Saari, and 46-year-old Chad Steven Warlin. UPSET detectives made the arrest, although they were assisted in the investigation by the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office and Ishpeming Police Department.
Members of the UPSET team collected hazardous chemicals and components used to manufacture meth from the home, according to news reports. UPSET is a team consisting of two multijurisdictional street narcotics teams. Founded in 1988, the team faced a budget cut earlier this year and now relies on private businesses, local government and independent donations to help continue their operations.
If convicted, Michigan drug crime attorneys know that the individuals involved face serious penalties. Methamphetamine is considered a Schedule II drug in Michigan; even for an amount less than 50 grams, those convicted may face up to 20 years in jail and fines of as much as $25,000. Substantial amounts of 1,000 grams or more can mean life behind bars and fines up to $1 million dollars. Other factors can make penalties even more harsh, such as if an individual has a previous criminal history, is found in possession of a gun or commits another offense in conjunction with or separate from the original crime he or she is accused of.
Even seemingly minor drug offenses are taken very seriously in the state of Michigan. Regardless of how minor or serious the charges may seem, it is critical to have a seasoned Michigan criminal defense lawyer who is dedicated to protecting your freedom and obtaining the best possible outcome.