Local law enforcers are constantly trying to curb drug-related problems. Traffic stops are set up across Louisiana not only to control drunk driving and traffic violators, but also to stop suspicious drug activities. Therefore, it is no surprise that residents of Louisiana may hear news regarding arrests involving drug charges.
Not far from Calcasieu, Louisiana, police arrested a man in Breaux Bridge on allegations that he intended to sell marijuana. Officers charged the 38-year-old man with a traffic violation for improper lane usage. Additionally, they charged him with suspicion that he had intent to distribute the drugs, which police believed would have been sold in Louisiana.
Police initially pulled the man over at a traffic stop and searched his van. They found 691 pounds of marijuana in the vehicle, which, according to their estimate, has a street value of $1 million. The man is now in police custody.
The weight of drug convictions in Louisiana can carry serious legal consequences. The extent of the sentence depends on several factors, which generally start with the amount of drugs and their face value. In this case, those factors are significant elements under state laws. Louisiana has stiff regulations to control possession of drugs, drug manufacturing and drug distribution. The man undeniably could face severe penalties and a potential jail sentence.
It is daunting for any defendant to ponder a solid defense strategy for a drug charge. On the part of the defendant, the need for legal advice could be crucial. Immediate legal assistance may provide options to the accused to contest the search and seizure operation and other processes that police must follow precisely.
Source: The Advocate, “Troopers confiscate 691 pounds of pot after stopping van near Breaux Bridge,” Aug. 18, 2013
