Heroin Seized in Simi Valley Drug Bust

Three men, ages 20, 23, and 40, were arrested on drug-related charges after police conducted a heroin drug bust. According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, the drug arrests occurred in Simi Valley after a six-month investigation. Officials began their investigation in September 2011. They seized five pounds of heroin, over $300,000 worth of narcotics, and $120,000 in cash. Officials believe that the drug ring was a majorpipeline into Los Angeles that may have been part of a $6 million a year business.

Heroin is classified as a Schedule 1 drug because it has a high potential for abuse and because it has no accepted medical use. There are serious penalties for drug possession in California, especially possessing any amount of heroin in California, and individuals suspected of transporting or selling heroin could potentially face life-changing criminal penalties.

Health and Safety Code 11352 makes it a felony to transport or sell heroin punishable up to three, four, or five years in state prison. The fine for this offense increases from $20,000 to $50,000 if the amount of heroin seized exceeds 14.25 grams or if the defendant has a prior conviction for any controlled substance. The penalties can become even more severe if the suspects are involved in a drug ring, if drugs are sold or possessed near a school zone, or if the drugs are transported over state lines.

Anyone facing heroin-related charges would be well advised to seek out legal guidance from an experienced criminal defense lawyer. A skilled defense attorney will examine the circumstances of the arrest to determine if any of the charges can be fought or if the charges or penalties can be reduced.

The reputed Ventura County drug crime attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan have a long history of handling heroin-related crimes in Ventura, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. If you or a loved one has been accused of a drug crime, please contact us at (866) 430-8383 to discuss your case at absolutely no cost.