Being accused of drug crimes can carry serious consequences. Those who are charged with crimes such as drug trafficking, drug possession or intent to distribute may face stiff fines or possible jail sentences. Anyone faced with drug charges should know how to fight the charges.
Police conducting a narcotics trafficking investigation in southeast Chicago began surveillance on a man’s rental truck when they learned that the non-refrigerated vehicle had frozen strawberries as its cargo. Authorities approached the man, who cooperated with authorities. When a Chicago Police K9 unit inspected the containers, cannabis was allegedly discovered hidden among the containers of fruit. Authorities also claimed to find a handgun and more cannabis hidden in pots of frozen strawberries at the man’s residence and a South Side of Chicago warehouse.
More than 2,500 pounds of cannabis hidden in more than 1,000 pots of frozen strawberries was uncovered. The estimated street value of the drugs is $6.8 million. According to authorities, the drugs were to be distributed to local street gangs, but it’s unclear how they came to this estimation. The man has been charged with possession of more than 5,000 grams of cannabis.
Felony drug charges can carry heavy penalties. Anyone who is charged with a drug offense should investigate the charges, learn about the possible penalties and find out if alternative options such as drug diversion programs are possible in their particular circumstances. Alternatively, a plea bargain might be negotiated. It’s also important to determine whether police surveillance was done within the scope of the law. Sometimes corners are cut.
Source: CBSChicago, “Man Charged With Hiding Pot In Frozen Strawberries,” Nov. 29, 2012
