Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
For several months now, SWET (Southwest Enforcement Team) has been investigating suspected illegal drug activity at a store and two residences in Van Buren County. Recent searches made by authorities resulted in the seizing of illegal marijuana, counterfeit clothing, suspected drug proceeds, and a fully automatic firearm according to a news article at Mlive.com.
Over the last several months, police began investigating claims that the Tranquility Central store in downtown South Haven was selling marijuana illegally under the guise that patients were being provided with medical marijuana. Tranquility Central is allegedly a medical marijuana dispensary, however in April of 2012 police investigations revealed that inside the store was found a digital scale, packaging materials, and finished product marijuana along with a computer and business records.
Last week, 25-year-old Frank Consolino of South Haven was arrested on a felony warrant while three search warrants for narcotics were being executed, according to police. A SWET news release indicated that the search warrants were executed at two homes in Geneva Township, as well as the Tranquility Central store.
The Southwest Enforcement Team is under the supervision of Michigan State Police, and is a team of criminal investigators from multiple jurisdictions. During this months long investigation, undercover detectives claim that the suspects shared the fact that illegal drug activities were being hidden under the guise of providing a service for medical marijuana patients. The detectives also purchased marijuana on multiple occasions from the suspects in their ongoing investigation.
While Frank Consolino was arrested, other suspects’ names had not been released as of September 6. Warrants were being sought by SWET for occupants of the two homes as well as other operators and owners of the business. Police stated that the remaining suspects’ names were being withheld pending arrest warrants and arraignment.
Crimes involving the illegal sale or distribution of marijuana will leave those convicted facing serious consequences. Penalties include jail time, substantial fines, and more. How harsh the punishment an individual faces will depend on several factors including criminal history and the type/amount of drug possessed.
Anyone who has been arrested or is under investigation for illegal drug activities involving marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, or other illicit substances must consult with a highly qualified Michigan drug crimes attorney at once.