30 Texans Charged for Running a Meth Distribution Ring Out of a Store

 Posted on October 29, 2020 in Criminal Defense

As of late, a number of large-scale drug operations have been discovered and shut down by Texas law enforcement. Some spanning from Mexico, through Texas, and all the way to West Virginia while others are bringing down small Texas communities. Those found guilty of possessing, manufacturing, and distributing these illegal substances will face hefty charges in the state of Texas. Depending on the substance at hand, drug charges can span from a relatively minor misdemeanor to a first-degree felony. 

Fort Worth Drug Ring

In mid-October, 30 members of an alleged methamphetamine distribution ring were taken into custody and charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. According to reports from KWTX, the group was led by Jonathon Rodriguez, the 30-year-old owner of Funky Town Swag, a clothing store located in Fort Worth. Investigators took possession of 16 kilograms of meth, 9 ounces of heroin, and 9 firearms during the arrest. According to sources, methamphetamine has been an ongoing issue in North Texas for some time. Law enforcement discovered that Rodriguez and his team had allegedly attempted to create a meth conversion lab inside a Fort Worth residence. Reports claim that the drug ring allegedly distributed kilograms of crystal meth out of Funky Town Swag’s back office, a number of trap houses, a car wash, and a local motel. If they are found guilty, the 30 members each face up to 40 years in federal prison.

Texas Drug Charges

In Texas, illegal substances are classified into various penalty groups, which designate the severity of the charge. As a hallucinogen, methamphetamine falls into penalty group two, alongside mescaline and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The penalties assigned to those found guilty of possession, manufacturing, or distribution varies based on the amount that the party has in their possession. For Rodriguez and his crew, the amount was significant. Those found with less than 1 gram will face a state jail felony, whereas those who are caught with over 400 grams of a controlled substance in this group will face 5-99 years in jail and up to $50,000 in fines.

Contact a Plano, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer

Drug crimes are taken very seriously by the state of Texas due to the danger that the controlled substances have on individuals and the community at large. Those facing criminal charges for drug possession, manufacturing, or distribution should immediately seek out legal representation. The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. will review the details of your case, determine your best strategy of defense, and provide relentless representation in court. For over 20 years, Attorney Darlina Crowder has successfully defended criminal charges throughout the state of Texas, ranging from minor drug charges to the most serious felonies. If you are facing drug charges, you do not have to do so alone. Contact our seasoned Collin County drug crimes defense attorney at 214-544-0061 to discuss the details of your case during your free initial consultation. 

Sources:

https://thearbor.com/texas-drug-laws/

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.481.htm

https://www.kwtx.com/2020/10/16/30-charged-in-meth-distribution-ring-run-out-of-texas-clothing-store/