The NJ Star-Ledger broke a story a few weeks ago centered around a large marijuana bust. A group that they are calling a Vietnamese “gang” was found to have an extensive growing operation in rural Middlesex County. With social acceptance of the drug rising, police are going in circles busting up such rings and making little to no progress.
The group was found to be growing 1,000 marijuana plants in the basement of a rural home. In addition to the pot, cops found $60,000 in case. They didn’t, however, find any weapons.
The neighbors interviewed in the article act as if the bust was no big deal, an attitude becoming more and more common. They state nearly half of the American population supports legalizing marijuana. However, the laws against pot exist and until they don’t, law enforcement will be stuck handling a never ending problem.
The six arrested in Middlesex each face 20 years in prison. The article estimates that, if convicted and sentenced to the full term, they could end up costing taxpayers $6 million.
Many people think that possessing marijuana is a far lesser offense than any other controlled substance. And while the sentences might be slightly more lenient, the prosecutors in New Jersey will still seek out and press charges against those people accused of violating marijuana laws. Don’t let society’s growing acceptance of the drug make you think otherwise.
Even for simple possession of marijuana you can spend 18 months in jail. While this isn’t likely—it is possible. Luckily, some jurisdictions offer what is called a conditional discharge, or diversion. For first time offenders, this is a second chance at keeping your criminal record clean.
When you are facing marijuana charges, you need someone acting on your behalf. I have handled many pot cases in New Jersey criminal courts and can use my experience to help you with yours. Contact me today to discuss the details of your case and get some legal advice to help you figure out your options at this difficult time.
Hi, this is a comment.
To delete a comment, just log in and view the post's comments. There you will have the option to edit or delete them.