The Gas Pipe defendants, a father-daughter duo of shopkeepers who were accused of trafficking synthetic cannabis products (also known as "spice") were recently acquitted in a court of law. We've followed their story in our blog before.
Charged with a drug offense?
If you've been charged with drug trafficking (or any other drug-related offense), be skeptical of the advice from your friends or the internet.
Could medical marijuana lead to a drug trafficking charge?
The national attitude toward marijuana has undergone a massive shift in recent years -- but that doesn't mean that people aren't being prosecuted for marijuana crimes. It's important to remember that state laws regarding marijuana possession vary considerably, even in states where some versions of the drug are legal. In addition, marijuana possession still remains a crime under federal law, no matter what state law may say.
Drug dealing and drug trafficking: What's the difference?
Being charged with drug possession is scary enough -- but if the prosecution elevates the charges to either possession with the intent to sell or drug trafficking, the situation could become downright terrifying.
Texas jury acquits shop owners of drug trafficking over 'spice'
Did the owners of a chain of stores in Texas intentionally research the ever-evolving list of synthetic drugs that were illegal under federal law in order to avoid prosecution? Or, were they desperately trying to avoid breaking the law?
Man arrested for drug crimes after vehicle stop for speeding
Allegations of drug crimes in Longview and across Texas can lead to major penalties and an extended jail term if there is a conviction. The amount of drugs that the person allegedly has in his or her possession will dictate the level of charges and whether it will be a matter of the person having a drug that is for personal use or low-level sale or is for a larger-scale operation of drug trafficking. Many of these arrests start with a traffic violation and a vehicle stop and search.
The importance of legal help with drug trafficking charges
Despite attempts on the part of Texas law enforcement and by the federal government to reduce drugs coming into the U.S. and being sold across the country, the problem is still significant. That can lead to people being arrested for a variety of criminal acts related to drugs, possession and sales. Often, people who are considered "low level" are arrested and charged with sale of small amounts of drugs. Others are arrested for possession with an amount that is likely for personal use. These can be problematic, but there are worse accusations.
Couple faces allegations of multiple drug crimes after arrest
Since drugs can be so problematic for Longview residents and for people throughout Texas, law enforcement officers try to make arrests and stop those who are involved in drug activity. To do this, there will be investigations, coordinated enforcement and other strategies to catch and arrest those who might be taking part in drug sales, drug trafficking and other crimes. People who are facing charges related to drugs should remember their right to a strong defense, as there can be significant penalties for a conviction.
What are the penalties for drug crimes delivering to a child?
While there is an ongoing debate as to whether recreational marijuana should be made legal and many states are decriminalizing it, Texas is not one of them yet. When a person is placed under arrest and charged with allegations of legal violations related to marijuana, there can be severe penalties assessed if there is a conviction. The state takes these crimes very seriously and those who are arrested must make certain that they understand the level of penalties they are facing and that they plan a strong defense.
Does money have to change hands for a drug trafficking charge?
Although the image Longview residents may have of a drug deal is two or more people exchanging illegal contraband, like cocaine, for cash, in a dark alley, Texas's drug trafficking laws actually are much broader than one might think. They indeed cover a lot of situations in which even a good person who is ordinarily law-abiding can find himself in.
