Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
Recently, a Marshfield, WI woman was arrested for allegedly using drugs in her hospital room the day after giving birth, according to a news article at WAOW ABC 9. 34-year-old Reva Martinez gave birth at St. Joseph’s Hospital, where the Marshfield police chief said employees smelled a burning odor coming from one of the labor and delivery rooms.
According to Police Chief Rick Gramza, the infant was in the room when police discovered the burnt smell was oxycodone. Martinez is accused of having drugs in her room, along with spoons containing white residue, syringes, and other drug paraphernalia. Others in the room at the time of the discovery included the baby’s father and his friend, however police were not certain whether they were also using drugs.
Hospital employees were concerned about the potential danger to the baby, who was placed under protective custody by DHS (Department of Human Services). The infant was still in the hospital on Monday. At the time of news reports, no charges had been filed against Martinez, however police are urging prosecutors to charge her with neglecting a child, possession of narcotic drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Possessing narcotic drugs that have not been prescribed to an individual by his/her physician is a serious criminal offense. Today, many people abuse oxycodone, morphine, and other narcotic drugs often given for pain. These medications are highly addictive, which is why they are listed as Schedule II drugs by the CSA, or Controlled Substances Act.
As experienced Michigan drug crime attorneys, we know that those found guilty of illegally possessing oxycodone face serious criminal penalties. The possession of less than 50 grams of oxycodone will leave those convicted facing a maximum of four years in prison, and/or fines of up to $25,000. While the news article did not indicate how much oxycodone was found, the amount of drug in a person’s possession is often a factor in the punishment he or she will face.
If you have been arrested for possession of narcotics or any offense involving illegal drugs or substances, consult with a qualified Michigan drug crime defense lawyer immediately in order to protect your legal rights and freedom.