A simple possession arrest in Louisiana by state or local authorities can be very stressful. But those who are arrested on federal drug charges may find themselves in an especially daunting situation. Federal charges often come about as a result of investigations. This means the subjects of the arrest were under surveillance while evidence was compiled.
Individuals arrested in a drug bust involving federal officials may find that a strong case existed against them prior to the arrest. This can make it very difficult for such individuals to achieve exoneration in a court of law.
Recently, nine individuals were charged in an indictment issued by a federal grand jury. The charges stemmed from a large scale drug arrest, which took place in Baton Rouge. Contained in the indictment were charges of money laundering, firearm offenses and drug trafficking.
The bust was part of a cooperative effort on behalf of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. The operation, called Operation Armageddon, netted over a million dollars? worth of methamphetamine, 8 pounds of marijuana and a number of weapons.
Due to the serious nature of the charges, the nine individuals could face long-term prison sentences and fines. If convicted, they may also have to forfeit the proceeds collected from their illegal activity.
If you are ever placed under arrest for drug-related crimes, it is critical to start planning your defense as soon as possible. A Louisiana criminal defense attorney could examine all the evidence against you as well as how that evidence was acquired.
The attorney may be able to find instances in your arrest report that demonstrate that your rights had been violated, which could weaken the prosecution?s case. If need be, the attorney may also be able to help you work out a plea agreement or prepare your case for a court trial.
Source: The United States Attorney?s Office, Middle District of Louisiana, “Indictment And Historic Drug Seizure In Operation Armageddon,” April 14, 2015