Over the course of the past year Central Florida has seen an increase in the number of drug arrests tied to the creation and use of methamphetamine. The increase in arrests, particularly in Volusia County, is the result of an operation focused on the county to reduce the number of meth labs that are in existence.
In addition to getting rid of approximately100 meth labs, the efforts of law enforcement resulted in 31 individuals being charged with drug crimes. So far, 11 people have been convicted. Certain individuals who were convicted could face five years behind bars. In addition it is possible that their lives will be impacted in other ways as well. Besides carrying around the burden of a criminal record, a conviction could result in fines and even the loss of a driver’s license.
This does not have to be the outcome of a methamphetamine charge however. Prompt action after an arrest and methamphetamine charge could lead to a reduction in charges or even their dismissal. In other cases sentencing could be deferred in exchange for the accused completing treatment for substance abuse.
Police in Volusia County have indicated that they are not done yet. At least seven people are still being sought in connection with labs in the area. Because law enforcement is taking such a hard-line against the makers and traffickers of meth it is important that those facing charges for the crime take it serious as well. Doing so could be the difference between freedom and imprisonment.
Source: WFTV, “Volusia County cracks down on meth labs, users,” Feb. 14, 2013
- It is important to mount a vigorous defense anytime criminal charges are levied. We handle similar situations to the one discussed in this post. For more information on these types of claims, please visit our Orlando methamphetamine cooking and trafficking defense page.
