Articles Posted in Drug Crimes

On Tuesday August 27, former Wake Forest football players Devin Bolling and Duran Lowe had misdemeanor drug charges against them dismissed.  The two athletes had been suspended last year after being arrested on drug charges, which violated athletics department policy.

According to a news article at TheTimesNews.com, Lowe pleaded guilty in February to possession of drug paraphernalia, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, and possession of stolen goods.  He was initially charged with maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances, a misdemeanor offense, and felony possession with intent to sell and distribute marijuana.  Police had received a report regarding possible drug activity in the apartment the two athletes shared.  Upon searching the apartment (which the suspects apparently allowed), police discovered digital scales and marijuana.

Los Angeles drug crime attorneys understand that it makes do difference what state you live in; when a young college-age student gets into trouble with the law, it is extremely stressful for both the student and the parents.  Teens and young adults make mistakes, as even adults do.  It is important to note that not every case involving drugs is vigorously prosecuted, and there are alternatives available in some situations that focus on rehabilitation rather than criminal punishment.

On Thursday August 15, 57 members of an alleged Mexico – Los Angeles drug trafficking ring were indicted by federal prosecutors.  Authorities claim various illegal drugs were smuggled from Mexico into LA including heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Eighteen of the alleged traffickers were arrested by DEA agents.  According to a news article at the Los Angeles Times, the drugs were being smuggled into California in PVC pipe and concealed compartments.

An investigation into the drug smuggling operation began in early 2011.  Since that time, authorities have seized 20 kilos of brown heroin, 30 kilograms of cocaine, 16 kilograms of white heroin, and over 2,400 lbs. of methamphetamine.  News reports also claim 18 firearms and over $1.2 million in cash have been recovered in connection with the alleged narcotics transactions.

Mexico-based Miguel Angel Molinero-Castro was the initial focus of the investigation, believed to have stashed significant quantities of controlled substances in PVC pipe which were further hidden inside the axles of tractor-trailer rigs.  These shipments were received at South Gate and Wilmington truck yards.  Authorities claim the distribution network also encompassed some suburban homes in Sylmar and Sun Valley.