8 Individuals Accused of Transnational Drug Trafficking

Posted on March 15, 2021 in Criminal Defense

Fort Worth criminal defense attorney drug trafficking

Drug trafficking is never a one-man operation. In some cases, the drug sales may be moving locally across various hands while in others the drug trafficking operation can span across the globe. A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas indicted eight individuals for their illicit involvement in an international drug trafficking conspiracy. Only one of the people involved is actually from Texas despite the case happening in a Texas court. So why is the case taking place in the Lone Star State and what are the charges being made?

Texas As Home Base

Eight individuals, including 40-year-old Carlos Villaurrutia of McAllen, Texas, were charged with conspiracies to manufacture and distribute cocaine, commit money laundering, commit wire fraud, commit export violations, and commit federal registration violations involving an aircraft. According to the indictment, these eight people have been involved in approximately $350 million in alleged criminal offenses over the past five years.

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Some Texas Counties Are Not Prosecuting Minor Crimes, Dallas Included

Posted on February 08, 2021 in Criminal Defense

Tarrant County criminal defense attorney drug possession

Policing and the criminal justice system has been under intense scrutiny over the past year. With tapes being released showing police brutality and mass gatherings protesting law enforcement tactics, many government officials have been forced to rethink how public safety is being reinforced. A recent article released by Chron reveals that a number of Texas counties are not prosecuting minor crimes. For some, this may seem like a red flag for a lack of public safety, while others may see this as a nod in the right direction for the criminal justice system.

Crimes That Will Not Get You Prosecuted

With the overcrowding of prisons and the high cost of the current criminal justice system, some Texas district attorneys are changing county policies in an attempt to reduce the jail population. Chron reporting reveals four locations that have taken a more modern, laissez-faire approach to criminal justice and policing:

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University Drug Trafficking Ring Busted in Austin, Texas

Posted on December 30, 2020 in Criminal Defense

Collin County criminal defense attorney drug trafficking

Young, college-age kids are notorious for pushing the envelope. Whether that involves going against their parents’ wishes, drinking underage, or trying illegal substances, one defiant action can quickly lead to a series of poor decisions. Drinking under the age of 21 can also result in a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge depending on the circumstances, and trying a single drug can often result in a life riddled by drug crimes. Those involved in drug rings recognize young adults’ willingness to try drugs and the likelihood of them getting hooked on these substances. With this in mind, many will target college-age kids to create regular customers of their products, many of which are not the drug that they think they are.

UT Students at Risk

In early December, authorities busted a drug trafficking operation that targeted the University of Texas (UT) students. At least 13 people were charged in connection with the scheme, including current and former UT students. Authorities reported that the drug ring sold counterfeit prescription drugs, claimed to be Adderall and Xanax, to students that were laced with methamphetamine and fentanyl. Adderall and Xanax are regulated and legitimate prescription medications that many students will purchase in the hopes that they will improve their studying and focus before major assignments or exams. Purchasing these drugs without a prescription is a crime in and of itself, but finding out that the regulated, FDA-approved medication is laced with dangerous substances was not what the students signed up for.

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

Posted on October 29, 2020 in Criminal Defense

Collin County criminal defense attorney drug crimes

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.

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Video of Toddler Smoking Marijuana Leads to Child Endangerment Charges

Posted on September 21, 2020 in Criminal Defense

Fort Worth criminal defense attorney child endangerment

The public’s opinion of drugs and alcohol has changed dramatically throughout our nation’s history. Alcohol was common in many American homes until the 18th Amendment banned the consumption of liquor, beer, and wine in 1919. Then, the 21st Amendment repealed the ban on the manufacture and consumption of alcohol. Today, marijuana is a subject of great controversy across the United States. Some consider it a dangerous “gateway drug” while others believe that the substance offers significant medicinal benefits. Although the laws surrounding drugs and alcohol are constantly changing, one certainty has remained consistent: Drugs and alcohol should not be consumed by children. Allowing a child to consume drugs or alcohol or consuming an illicit substance in the presence of a child can result in child endangerment charges.

Criminal Charges Can Result from Exposing a Child to Danger

Children are unable to adequately provide for their own safety. Consequently, they are dependent on adults to protect them from harm. When an adult fails to protect a child or allows a child to be in a dangerous situation, he or she may be charged with the criminal offense of child endangerment. One Texas woman was recently arrested and charged with child endangerment after a video surfaced of the woman allowing her 3-year-old brother to smoke marijuana. The video, which was shared on Facebook and quickly shared with Texas police, shows the boy’s 18-year-old sister and another individual actively encouraging the toddler to inhale. Child Protective Services is currently investigating the situation. It is unknown if further criminal charges will be brought against the young boy’s parents. If the sister is convicted of child endangerment, she faces up to two years of imprisonment in a Texas state jail facility.

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What Types of Drug Crimes Are Prosecuted By the Federal Government?

Posted on July 17, 2020 in Federal Crimes

Fort Worth criminal law attorney federal drug crimes

The manufacture, possession, and distribution of illicit drugs are prosecuted by both state governments and the federal government. Any drug-related criminal charge can lead to harsh penalties but federal offenses are often penalized more severely than crimes prosecuted by the state. If you have been charged with drug possession with intent to distribute, drug trafficking, or drug manufacturing, it is crucial that you speak with a criminal defense attorney. Federal drug crimes are often punished by lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines. Your attorney can help you defend yourself against these charges and ensure that your rights are fully protected.

Federal Drug Offenses Often Involve the Transportation of Drugs Across State Lines

Often, a drug offense is prosecuted by the federal government because the defendant is alleged to have transported drugs from one state to another or imported the drugs into the U.S. from another country. You may also face federal charges if the crime you allegedly committed:

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Can I Face Federal Charges for Transporting Cannabis Across State Lines?

Posted on April 06, 2020 in Federal Crimes

Fort Worth federal drug charges defense attorney

It seems as if drug laws in the United States are constantly changing. In 1970, the federal Controlled Substances Act classified cannabis as a Schedule 1 drug and prohibited the use of the substance for both medical and recreational purposes. In 1996, California became the first state to allow the use of cannabis to treat medical conditions. Today, marijuana may legally be used for medical purposes in the majority of the United States, and it is has been legalized for recreational use in 11 states. However, it is important to remember that a number of state and federal laws still regulate the purchase, use, cultivation, and transportation of cannabis. In some cases, a person may even face federal drug trafficking charges for moving cannabis across state lines.

Federal Laws Regulating the Transport of Marijuana

One of the most confusing aspects of cannabis laws in the United States is that although the substance is legal in many states, it still remains illegal at the federal level. According to the federal government, marijuana is still considered a Schedule 1 drug with “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Interstate transportation of marijuana or cannabis-related products is a federal crime as well as a state crime. Even if you purchase marijuana in a state in which it is legal, it is a crime to transport the drug into another state.

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When Is Drug Manufacturing Charged as a Federal Offense?

Posted on December 12, 2019 in Federal Crimes

Tarrant County federal drug crimes defense attorney

The manufacture of illegal drugs may be prosecuted at the Texas state level or at the federal level. Federal crimes typically carry much stricter criminal penalties than state crimes. There are many different ways that drug possession, drug manufacturing, or drug distribution charges can be considered federal offenses. In some cases, something as simple as consuming an illegal drug on federal property such as a National Park may be enough reason for a criminal offense to be prosecuted at the federal level. If you or a loved one is facing federal drug manufacturing charges, do not take these accusations lightly. Contact a criminal defense attorney qualified to defend against charges levied by the federal government as soon as possible.

Federal Law Regarding the Manufacture of Drugs

Chapter 21 of the U.S. Code lists the laws prohibiting the manufacture of controlled substances in the United States. The law states that it is illegal to intentionally or knowingly:

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What Are the Consequences of Federal Drug Trafficking Charges?

Posted on October 28, 2019 in Federal Crimes

Plano, Texas federal drug crimes defense attorney

While many drug charges are handled at the state level, certain drug offenses are investigated and prosecuted at the federal level. Federal drug charges carry significantly harsher penalties than state charges. An individual who is charged with federal drug trafficking can face years or even decades of incarceration. If an individual is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), or another federal government agency for a drug-related offense, it is imperative that he or she contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Drug Offenses Prosecuted in Federal Court

If a federal agency like the DEA or FBI becomes involved in a possible drug crime, it is likely that any resulting charges will be prosecuted in federal court. Federal drug charges are often the result of cases that involve a considerable amount of drugs or the transportation of drugs across state lines. You could be charged with federal drug trafficking for possessing:

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What Are the Penalties for Violating Drug Laws in Texas?

Posted on August 29, 2019 in Criminal Defense

Dallas drug crimes defense lawyer

With the rise of drug addiction across the United States, both the federal and state governments are taking measures to combat this growing epidemic. There is an increasing sentiment for creating harsher penalties for drug possession. Texas, as a border state where drug smuggling is likely to occur, has in many ways led the national trend toward more stringent punishment for drug crimes. Currently, Texas has some of the most no-nonsense drug laws in the nation. Therefore, it is important to understand those laws and the penalties for violating them.

Laws for Drug Possession

Controlled substances may include both illegal drugs and prescription drugs, and illegal possession of these substances can result in criminal charges. Controlled substances are grouped into several different "schedules" based on their medical uses, their potential for addiction, and the dangers they present to their users. These schedules are identified in Texas state statute Title 6, which also specifies the punishments a person may face for possessing different amounts of these substances.

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Changes Enacted to Texas Laws Regarding Medical Cannabis

Posted on August 12, 2019 in Criminal Defense

Dallas drug charges defense lawyer

Many states have passed laws that legalize the use of marijuana, both medically and recreationally. Texas has been historically recognized as one of the most conservative states and the use of cannabis is labeled as more liberally leaning. However, Texas legislation has begun to move toward this “liberal pathway.” In early June, House Bill 3703 was signed by Governor Greg Abbott. This bill expands medical marijuana access and use across the state of Texas, but still has strong regulations over the substance that could lead to criminal drug charges.

The Details of House Bill 3703

On June 14, House Bill 3703 was signed, effective immediately. This law now allows people with certain medical conditions to be eligible for medical marijuana use. Patients suffering from multiple sclerosis, seizure disorders, terminal cancer, autism, spasticity, or incurable neurodegenerative disease access to medical marijuana treatments. However, this form of medication cannot be smoked and must be used in the form of an oil or an inhaler. The CBD oil that is legal in Texas contains low levels of THC, the psychoactive element found in marijuana. Medicinal CBD products that are legal in Texas only contain 0.5 percent THC and over-the-counter CBD products have 0.3 percent. The intent of this bill is to allow those with the specified health issues to benefit from medical marijuana use while continuing to restrict the public or social use of the substance.

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