Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Saturday, October 18, Scott County Sheriff’s Department deputies went to the Benton, Missouri residence of a couple for a follow-up investigation on a domestic disturbance, according to a news article at the Southeast Missourian. What they found at the home of Russell and Connie Turner were drugs and drug paraphernalia, which resulted in both of the Turners’ arrest for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Connie Turner, 40, signed a consent-to-search form presented by the deputies; Russell Turner, who is 50, was asked to give consent to search the residence and did so. In the search of the home, deputies discovered drug paraphernalia. Methamphetamine residue was also detected when a field test was performed on the items. Connie Turner admitted to using meth, although her husband denied it. A urine test that Russell Turner later submitted to indicated the presence of methamphetamine in his system. Both of the Turners were taken to the Scott County Jail, where each was given a $750 cash only bond.
In Missouri, the maximum sentence for a conviction of possession of methamphetamine is 7 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Even possession of illegal drugs is serious, and may leave those accused facing harsh criminal penalties.
With every criminal case, the penalties for those convicted will depend on certain factors including the defendant’s criminal history. In Michigan, possession of meth will leave the accused facing fines of up to $15,000 and a maximum of 10 years in prison if found guilty. In drug cases, the amount of drug involved is often a factor in determining the punishment. It is important to note than when a significant amount of a substance such as meth, cocaine, or heroin is found by investigators, prosecutors may attempt to charge you with possession with intent to distribute, a more serious charge.
Regardless of your situation, the most important step you can take is to contact a skilled Michigan drug crime attorney. No matter what the circumstances of your case are, you are innocent until proven guilty. Your lawyer will work to protect your legal rights and freedom, and obtain positive results.