California Criminal Lawyer Blog

Six people were arrested in a Los Angeles drug raid at a marijuana dispensary. According to mercurynews.com, the drug arrests occurred at the White Oak Healing Center in Northridge. Authorities say they conducted the raid after determining the center was a front for a large drug trafficking operation. Officers seized 20 pounds of cocaine, 75 pounds of marijuana and oxycodone pills. The 60-year male owner of the facility faces up to 13 years in prison and five others face up to a decade of incarceration if convicted.

Drug raids have been known to lead to wrongful arrests and excessive penalties. When the authorities arrest multiple people at one time, there is always the chance that a few of the suspects were not fully aware of what was happening or were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Investigators working on these types of cases will have to ask a number of questions.

What evidence led the authorities to conduct the drug raid? Were the drugs legally seized during the raid? Were the suspects read their rights during the complicated drug bust? Is there sufficient evidence linking all of the suspects to the alleged crimes? While it is important to keep illegal drugs off the street, it is also important that individuals are not wrongfully arrested or convicted.

The Los Angeles drug crime attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff have a long history of successfully defending individuals arrested in drug raids. The consequences of a drug crime conviction can be rather severe. If you or a loved one is facing these allegations, please call our offices at 866-430-8383 to find out how we can help you.

A total of sixteen people were arrested throughout Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and Ventura Counties following a six-month drug ring investigation. According to a news report in The Ventura County Star, the Santa Barbara Regional Narcotic Enforcement Team seized 16 grams of rock cocaine and 12 pounds of methamphetamine during this bust. Not only were the 16 people arrested, but eight children were also removed from their homes under the Drug Endangered Children Program. The report states that warrants were served during the June 9, 2011 drug raid and that the authorities obtained $200,000 in cash and five handguns in addition to the drugs.

Major drug busts that result in the arrests of multiple people at numerous locations can become immensely complicated. Authorities do their best to make sure that those directly connected to criminal acts are penalized. Unfortunately, it is common in these types of cases for certain individuals to be penalized more than others and for some people to be wrongfully arrested for just being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Drug charges in California relating to possession and distribution often results in lengthy incarceration and heavy fines. Anyone facing serious drug charges would be well advised to immediately seek legal guidance before discussing the specifics of the case with the authorities.

The Santa Barbara drug crime defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff serve all of Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties. We have a long history of protecting the rights of our clients and getting their charges reduced or thrown out. To discuss the specifics of your case completely free of charge, call our experienced criminal defense lawyers at 866-430-8383 today. We are here to help.

On Monday, January 3, the California Supreme Court ruled that police searches of cell phones without a warrant are allowed under standards set by the U.S. Supreme Court, reports NBCBayArea.com.

The court was ruling on a case from Ventura County that involved a man who had been arrested and convicted on drug charges. When the man was arrested, police confiscated six tablets of ecstasy and his cell phone. A detective who did not have a search warrant discovered text messages on the man’s phone that talked about selling the drugs. The man admitted he participated in the drug deal, and also pleaded guilty to transporting a controlled substance. He was sentenced to probation. However, he appealed the use of his cell phone’s text messages as evidence on the basis that the detective did not have a search warrant.

Previously, U.S. Supreme Court rulings have permitted warrantless searches of a person’s personal property that are “immediately associated” with them when they are arrested, such as cigarette packages or clothing. In this case, the California Supreme Court found that law enforcement officers are able to search cell phones within 90 minutes following a person’s arrest under the Fourth Amendment, and upheld the man’s drug conviction by a 5-2 vote. Justice Ming Chin stated he believed the man’s cell phone was similar to clothing; therefore it was able to be searched.

The ruling by the California Supreme Court raises many privacy issues. With mobile technology getting more and more advanced, the average cell phone now has videos, photos, and email, as well as text messages, which an investigator by law is now able to have access to. Regardless of a situation surrounding an arrest, it is a lot of information for law enforcement officials to seize without valid, legal justification.

If you are facing drug charges in Southern California, contact Takakjian & Sitkoff. Our California drug crime defense lawyers have many years of experience, and understand the steps law enforcement officials must take during an arrest. We will work hard to defend your rights and may be able to get the charges being held against you reduced or dismissed. Call 1-866-430-8383 today for a free and confidential consultation.

A Ventura County man has been arrested for providing heroin to a minor who died later from an overdose. On May 22, 2010, a 15-year-old boy died after he overdosed on drugs, which officials say was provided by the defendant. According to ABC 7 News, the arrest was made on October 27 in Ojai following a four-month investigation. Police allege the Ojai man gave the teenager heroin and have charged him with providing controlled substances to a minor.

Selling or providing illegal drugs to a minor is a felony drug charge in California. Convicted offenders could face years of incarceration in a state prison and a strike under the California Three Strikes Law. Defendants facing felony drug charges would be well-advised to speak with a reputed criminal defense attorney to examine their legal rights and options.

In any drug crime case, it is critical to have skilled legal defense. The stakes in a drug crime case are extremely high, especial if a death is involved. A knowledgeable drug attorney will break down the evidence provided by the prosecutors and determine if any of the defendant's constitutional rights were violated during the arrest, as many drug crime arrests are made illegally without proper warrants. In cases where the drug charges cannot be dismissed, a drug offense attorney will seek to have the drug charges reduced to a lesser offense. Depending upon the circumstances of the drug offense, defendants may also be able to avoid jail time through alternative sentencing, such as rehabilitation or community service.

If you or a loved one is facing a drug charge in Ventura County, please contact the experienced Ventura drug crime defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff for a free and confidential consultation. Call us today at 1-866-430-8383 today to discuss your California drug crime case.

Today, Lindsay Lohan is required to appear in person for a probation violation hearing for a drug test she failed last month relating to her DUI case. Lohan has been at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, California, voluntarily for the past three weeks since she was bailed out of jail on September 24. It is Lohan’s fifth time in rehab, and may affect whether Lohan appears in court tomorrow.

Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Steve Sitkoff is not involved in Lohan’s case but told People.com, “The key here is her progress in treatment. The better she’s doing in rehab, the less likely Judge Elden Fox will throw her in jail. Judge Fox has to balance whether to help Lindsay with her addiction or punish her with jail. But if she continues to mess up by not following the court’s orders, he won’t hesitate to lock her up.”

There are a number of possible scenarios that may happen today. The famous actress may be found in violation and immediately sent back to jail, or she could be ordered to stay in rehab in lieu of jail. If her attorney provides a letter from the Betty Ford Center that details Lohan’s progress in rehab, she may skip the hearing altogether. There’s also a possibility Judge Fox may postpone the hearing to see how well Lohan does in treatment.

If you are convicted of a drug crime in Los Angeles, alternative sentencing and rehabilitation in lieu of jail may be possible. The experienced Los Angeles drug crime defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff have the skills and knowledge to help defend your rights in a court of law. All too often the stigma that stems from being accused of a drug crime can overshadow the need for rehabilitation. Our lawyers are aware of the sentencing options available to those facing drug crime charges and will work hard to help you attain a positive outcome in your Los Angeles drug crime case. Call us today for a free consultation at 1-866-430-8383.

A People.com article reported on Thursday, September 23, that Lindsay Lohan had failed a drug test and was ordered to appear before a Beverly Hills judge on Friday. The well-known actress was reported to have tested positive for cocaine and amphetamines. In anticipating that Superior Court Judge Elden Fox would order more rehab for Lohan instead of giving her a jail sentence, Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Steve Sitkoff told People, “Judge Fox is a compassionate judge who might choose to help her with her addiction versus just punishing her with jail.” According to Lohan’s probation terms, she could face 30 days in jail if she failed to take a drug test or got a positive result.

The Los Angeles Times reported on Friday, September 24 that Judge Fox ordered Lohan to jail for violating her probation by testing positive for a controlled substance. It was the Judge’s decision as to whether Lohan would be sent back to drug rehabilitation for treatment or face jail time. Judge Fox stated that additional information was needed from probation officials regarding Lohan’s condition before a revocation hearing could take place. Lohan was then ordered into custody without bail. The court date has been scheduled for October 22.

You don’t have to be a celebrity to feel under the spotlight when facing drug charges in Los Angeles. Being accused of a drug offense can be an intimidating process, leaving several individuals unsure about his or her legal rights. Addiction is a very serious and complex issue that should be thoroughly evaluated in drug crime cases to help the accused establish a healthy way of rejoining society as a productive contributor. Too often the social stigma that comes along with a drug offense overshadows a person’s need for rehabilitation and treatment.

At Takakjian & Sitkoff, our aggressive Los Angeles drug crime defense lawyers have the legal knowledge and skill to effectively defend your rights. We know all of the alternative sentencing options that may be available to those facing drug charges and will ensure that everything is done to help you obtain a successful case outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 1-866-430-8383.

Five people were arrested in a Southern California drug bust on September 10, 2010. According to an ABC News report, the suspects face many charges including possession of narcotics, violation of probation and parole, being under the influence of controlled substances and possession with intent to sell. During the raid, authorities found marijuana plants, methamphetamines and evidence, which they say, showed intent to sell the drugs. An investigation is underway.

Drug charges in California are very serious and result in harsh penalties. It is illegal to possess, sell or transport any type of narcotic or controlled substance. State and federal laws prohibit it. When it comes to marijuana, the state of California allows the drug for medical use only. The severity of the penalties in drug crimes depends upon a number of factors. Possession with intent to sell, for example, results in stricter penalties than possession for personal use only. The amount and type of drugs found may also determine the charges in these types of cases.

A skilled Orange County drug crime defense lawyer will have an understanding of California's "search and seizure" laws and will conduct an investigation to determine if any rights were violated during such police raids. If you have been charged with a drug offense in Southern California, please contact a knowledgeable drug crime defense attorney at Takakjian & Sitkoff. Call us at 1-866-430-8383 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

California’s Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act, known as “Proposition 36,” was passed by California voters in 2000. Proposition 36 allows people receiving their first or second nonviolent, simple drug possession conviction to seek treatment instead of going to jail. By taking Proposition 36’s treatment option, over 36,000 California residents get help for drug addiction each year instead of going to jail.

Californians who are eligible for Proposition 36 treatment must meet certain criteria. First, they must not have been convicted of a violent or serious felony, including manufacturing or selling illegal drugs. Second, they must be on their first or second conviction for drug possession or being under the influence, be on probation for drug possession or being under the influence, or be on parole for a nonviolent felony.

Under Proposition 36, a judge in charge of sentencing an eligible person may choose to place that person on probation and require that he or she complete a drug treatment program. The length and intensity of the drug treatment program varies with each individual case. Once the treatment program is over, their attorney may petition the court to dismiss the drug charges.

Both drug possession and being under the influence of a controlled substance, such as meth, cocaine, marijuana or prescription drugs, can carry serious penalties in California. Proposition 36 provides a way in which drug users can receive help to overcome addiction, instead of just sitting around in jail. If you or a loved one has been charged with drug possession or being under the influence, please don’t hesitate to contact the experienced Los Angeles drug offense defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff. Our skilled legal team will fight to protect your rights as we seek the best possible outcome in your drug case. Call us at 1-866-430-8383 to discuss your options.

A 35-year-old woman from Sonora, California was arrested on drug charges after officials found 5.3 grams of methamphetamine, syringes, drug paraphernalia and a marijuana cigarette after pulling her over for another violation. According to a news report in MyMotherLode.com, the woman faces serious California meth drug possession charges.

Whenever drugs are confiscated, a California drug crime defense attorney will be needed to investigate whether an individual’s rights were infringed upon. A police officer cannot simply search a vehicle for drugs without probable cause. If illegal items are visible to anyone looking into a car window, they may be eligible to be seized by police. But without having facts to justify a search, items that are hidden in the trunk or glove compartment are harder for police to obtain.

Even when illegal drugs, such as Meth or Cocaine are found, a drug lawyer can play an important role in court. There are often alternative sentencing options available to people charged with a drug crime. Community service, rehabilitation and weekend jails may be some viable options for a person facing jail time and other serious penalties. A drug crime attorney in California can be a valuable asset in a possession case by reviewing all possible options for someone charged with a drug crime. California drug crime convictions carry severe penalties. You need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side.

The drug crime defense attorneys of Takakjian & Sitkoff have helped numerous individuals successfully defend drug possession allegations in Orange, Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Call us at 1-866-430-8383 for a free consultation.

ABC News reports that 11 High School students in Ventura County could face drug charges after the arrest of a Thousand Oaks teen; who officials say, had marijuana in his vehicle and marijuana plants at his home. Police say the 18-year-old sold drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, Xanax and Vicodin to students at Westlake high school. Investigators say additional drug arrests are possible in this case.

You do not have to be found selling drugs to be charged with intent to sell. When the amount of drugs discovered is determined to be more than what one person can reasonably use, or if the manner in which it is packaged suggests that it is going to be shared or sold, that person faces "intent to sell" charges. One of the first steps a Los Angeles or Ventura County drug crime defense lawyer will perform is a thorough review of how the drugs were found. Everyone has a right to privacy in California. Police officers require a warrant or probable cause to search for and seize drugs from a suspect or vehicle.

Simple possession of marijuana in California is a misdemeanor. Even a first-time offense of possession with less than one ounce can lead to a $100 fine and jail time. However, cultivation, sale, distribution, transportation and selling drugs to minors all carry potentially life-changing penalties. Having an experienced drug crime defense lawyer on your side can make a huge difference in your drug case.

If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in Orange, Los Angeles or Ventura counties, please call Takakjian & Sitkoff at 866-430-8383 for a free consultation and drug case evaluation. The stakes are high in such cases not only because it could result in jail time, but also because it could affect your career, life and future. Call our office today to find out how we can help.

Los Angeles authorities have arrested 10 people who they believe are part of a major drug smuggling ring. According to a KTLA News report, officials believe the drug ring transported 200 pounds of methamphetamine from Mexico to Southern California on a monthly basis. It is alleged that the drugs were moved in fake car batteries driven in vehicles crossing the border. Over an eight-month period, law enforcement officials have seized more than $5 million worth of drugs. Also, 31 defendants have been charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison without parole.

Drug charges in Orange and Los Angeles Counties can be extremely serious and involve severe penalties. There are many aspects of a case that determine the harshness of the penalties for drug offenses. For instance, possession with intent to sell presents far more serious legal consequences than possession of a controlled substance for personal use only. The amount of drugs found can also affect the nature and severity of the drug charges.

In such drug crime cases, defendants need quality legal representation from a skilled drug charges lawyer with thorough knowledge of California and federal laws, including "search and seizure." For example, it is important to look into whether the police discovered the drugs under an illegal search and seizure operation. If it is determined that the defendant's Constitutional rights were violated, then the case can get thrown out. In a serious drug crime case where the stakes are high, it is important to have experienced Los Angeles drug crime defense attorneys checking every detail of your case.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Police Crack Down On Meth Ring " »

Three people were arrested after Los Angeles County Sheriff's officials seized more than 300 marijuana plants at a home in Lancaster. According to a CBS News report, deputies found two bedrooms and a large room in Lancaster that were all converted to a marijuana growing facility. The grow areas had sophisticated lighting and automatic irrigation. A 23-year-old man was arrested inside the home and two others were arrested in the backyard of a home nearby. All three men were arrested for marijuana possession related charges under the California Health and Safety Code.

In California, marijuana possession and use of most drugs, even if it is for personal use, is a felony. Misdemeanor drug offenses include possession of marijuana, being under the influence of a drug, and possession of drug paraphernalia such as bongs, pipes or needles. It is also a felony to possess or buy illegal drugs with the intent of selling them. Evidence for intent to sell can include items such as weighing scales, large amounts of cash or cutting agents. In any drug case, it is important to look into whether the search and seizure was conducted properly by the police. Were the defendant's constitutional rights violated? If that was the case, the court may dismiss the drug or marijuana possession charges.

Continue reading "Three Arrested for Growing Marijuana " »

Drug crimes are not only a huge problem in California, but are also a major issue of concern throughout the nation. According to recent FBI reports, drugs and drug-related offenses account for about one-third of all arrests. California has led the nation when it comes to arrests for possession and sale of controlled substances and narcotics. According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's statistics for 2009, 28 percent of all incarcerated inmates are there primarily for a drug offense. Last year alone, 10,310 inmates were enrolled in prison drug treatment programs.

A recent news report in The Acorn states that law enforcement officials are also aggressively pursuing drug offenders by joining forces to conduct raids – even outside of their jurisdictions. When it comes to drug crimes, it seems as if there are no boundaries. The article gives the example of a drug case in November when two Simi Valley teens were arrested on suspicion of dealing heroin in East Ventura County. Also, in September, a Simi woman was arrested for operating a cocaine delivery service, which covered Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and the San Fernando Valley.

Continue reading "Southern California Law Enforcement Agencies Actively Pursuing Drug Offenders" »

Brawley King Nolte, the son of actor Nick Nolte, was arrested for driving under the influence in Santa Monica, California, according to a recent news report. The 23-year-old Nolte was stopped and arrested by Santa Monica police officers after he reportedly tried to change lanes and collided with another car. He was taken into custody after allegedly failing field sobriety tests and showing signs of intoxication and was booked for DUI and possession of a controlled substance.

Both driving under the influence and possession of illegal drugs are serious crimes in California. California law prohibits drivers from operating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle."

A common mistake that many DUI arrestees make when they are arrested is that they plead guilty. Many do not know that they may not be "guilty" just because they take a breath or blood test and have an elevated blood alcohol level. Also, even though a person is arrested for drug possession, it does not mean they will be found guilty either.

Continue reading "Nick Nolte's Son Arrested for DUI in Los Angeles" »

Three men in Orange County have been charged with various drug crimes after police officers in Placentia found hallucinogens and other drugs following a stakeout in a local neighborhood. According to a news report, police reportedly found cocaine, marijuana, heroin, illegal prescription pills, ecstasy pills as well as psilocybin; the active component in illegal hallucinogenic mushrooms. Police said they organized the stakeout after anonymous citizen informants told them about illegal drug activity in the area.

Drug charges are extremely serious in Orange County and Los Angeles County and come with severe consequences including jail or prison time. The drug charges are usually based on quantity, whether the drugs were possessed for personal use or possession for sale, intent to sell or distribute; and other factors such as evidence of weapons possession or use, drug transportation or sales, large amounts of cash and so on. The seriousness of drug charges normally depend on the quantity of drugs possessed, the classification under the drug schedule, and the purpose of the possession – whether it was for personal use or for sale.

Continue reading "Three Orange County Men Face Drug Charges" »

Six people, who allegedly work for a Mexican drug cartel, were arrested in Imperial County after undercover agents arranged to sell them 160 pounds of cocaine, according to a CBS News report. The arrests apparently involved a Mexican drug cartel believed to transport large amounts of cocaine through border crossings in Calexico. The suspects reportedly agreed to pay $1.1 million for the drugs the undercover agents promised to sell them. Each of the six defendants faces 15 years in prison if convicted of all charges that include possession and transportation of cocaine.

All drug crimes are serious. But the type of charges you could face depends on the nature and seriousness of the crime. In drug cases, some of the factors that could come into play include the type of drugs, the quantity of drugs and the reason for possession. If you possess a small amount of drugs for recreational use, the charges you face may not be as serious as if you possess large quantities of drugs meant for sale or transportation across state or international borders. Cases involving large-scale transportation of drugs or cases involving drug cartels are handled by federal authorities and federal courts.

Continue reading "Six Arrested in California Drug Sting" »

An Orange County man has been arrested after police in Irvine found more than 200 ecstasy tablets and 2.5 gallons of GHB ( a common “club drug’) in his vehicle. According to a news report, police found the 38-year-old man parked near an Irvine intersection. A vehicle search resulted in the drugs being found. Police later performed a search of the man's home and found more GHB and illegal steroids, the news report said. According to the article, the man was arrested for possessing a controlled substance for sale. This is most likely due to the large quantities of the drugs, which is an indication of possession for sales activity.

A drug offense in California refers to the possession, use, sale or furnishing of any drug or intoxicating substance or drug paraphernalia that is prohibited by law. Most drug offenses in California are now felonies. Possession of drugs for transportation or sale is a serious felony under California law. Currently, there are also more than 100 different types of anabolic steroids that have been developed, and each requires a prescription to be used legally in the United States. Illegal possession of anabolic steroids is also a crime.

Continue reading "Man Arrested for Possession of Drugs for Sale in Irvine" »

Drug crimes, especially those involving marijuana or concentrated cannabis, can be extremely complex and controversial because the laws involving these drugs are convoluted and difficult to understand. The San Bernardino Sun recently reported that the vice principal of a school in San Bernardino, who was arrested on charges of possessing marijuana for sale, told police that she was using the drug for medicinal purposes. Officials arrested the woman after finding 12 ounces of low-grade marijuana and 2.8 grams of a high grade variety in her SUV. The woman told officials that she started using medical marijuana two years ago for a bad knee. According to the news report, this woman did not have a doctor authorization document at the time of her arrest.

The California Compassionate Use Act of 1996 or Proposition 215 legalized the possession and cultivation of marijuana for personal use with a doctor's recommendation. Police cannot arrest or charge a person who has a doctor's prescription. Often referred to as a “Medical Marijuana Card” for marijuana use. Still, we often see law enforcement agencies continue to arrest individuals who possess even small amounts of marijuana for medical use. When it comes to medical marijuana, the law is complex and can seem unclear because although Prop 215 allows medical marijuana in California, yet the drug is still illegal under federal law.

Continue reading "Woman Says She Was Arrested for Possession of Medical Marijuana" »

As a California Criminal Defense Law Firm, Takakjian & Sitkoff is happy to share their new drug crime website as an important resource for those interested in learning more about laws surrounding drug offenses and the consequences of such crimes. The new website, www.californiadrugcrimedefenselawyer.com/, supplies a wide-range of information regarding misdemeanor drug charges, felony drug charges, drug manufacturing, drug possession, drug distribution, and many other elements of drug offenses.

In accordance with efforts to lower crime, laws pertaining to drug crimes are subject to change, in which the public should be kept up-to-date on such developments that could potentially directly affect them. The lawyers at Takakjian & Sitkoff are pleased to have their drug crime website available as a means of helping educate the public on new and existing critical laws surrounding drug offenses. Drug charge penalties can be quite severe and mostly depend on the amount of drugs a person is accused of possessing, in addition to the kind of drug or drugs in question. Whether or not a person facing drug charges has a previous criminal record will also influence the charges held against them.

The experienced California drug crime defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff have devoted many years to ensuring that those accused of a drug offense are aware of their rights and receive quality legal representation. For more information regarding drug crime general facts, legal resources, or more, visit www.californiadrugcrimedefenselawyer.com/. The California drug crime defense lawyers at Takakjian & Sitkoff can be reached at 866-430-8383.

There is an interesting news article about drug court in the Desert Dispatch. The article talks about a San Bernardino County court program which makes healthy living and employment mandatory for program participants who are recovering from drug addiction. This particular drug court program encourages healthy activities such as sports for recovering addicts through mandatory monthly activities. In order to be part of the program, participants must go to mandatory court hearings, pass drug tests, participate in drug treatment and work toward getting a job. In Barstow alone, there are 62 individuals participating in the drug court program.

Drug courts all over Southern California are becoming an extremely popular alternative to jail for those convicted of relatively minor drug crimes, such as possession of drugs and being under the influence of drugs. A study in 2005 in Barstow, California showed that recidivism rates were remarkably lower for those who participated in a drug court.

The study found fewer drug court graduates were rearrested. The statistics for those rearrested after completing the program were 17 percent of drug court grads and 29 percent of drug court participants. This study used information from a number of California counties including Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and other counties.

Continue reading "Drug Courts Help Lower Relapse as a Good Alternative to Jail" »

Police in Ventura County have arrested a Granada Hills man for the California drug offense of cultivating marijuana after finding more than 1,000 plants on his property in Frazier Park. According to this news report in the Ventura County Star, Ventura County Sheriff's Department officials went to the man's property after being told of power outages in the area because of a malfunctioning electrical transformer and noticing a strong smell of marijuana.

Detectives conducted a search of the property and found a marijuana cultivation operation that included the use of hydroponics, officials said. The marijuana plants were found inside the house, garage and an outside building. The rooms were reportedly equipped with grow lights as well. No one was living in the property, but the home's owner was arrested.

California drug offenses refer to the cultivation, possession, sale, use, or furnishing of any drug or controlled substance or drug paraphernalia, which is prohibited by law. Most drug offenses in the state of California are now felonies. The penalties for drug crimes in Ventura County can be very severe. The type or severity of charges usually depends on the quantity, intent to sell or distribute, and other factors such as weapons possession or use, evidence of sales activity, having large amounts of cash, and so on. The seriousness and punishment for drug crimes usually depends on the quantity of drugs confiscated.

Continue reading "Ventura County Drug Crime Arrest for Marijuana Cultivation" »

The founder of a Los Angeles-based anti-drug group is now facing CA drug charges of selling methamphetamine and Ecstasy to an undercover Redondo Beach police detective, according to a recent news report. The co-founder and CEO of the Wall Foundation was reportedly arrested at a Starbucks on Sepulveda Boulevard in El Segundo. Undercover officials made a deal with him to sell them the drugs, police said. The man was arrested when he handed the envelope to the undercover officer in exchange for $480. Officers later discovered that he actually tried to cheat them by giving them rock salt instead of meth and was trying to pass off antihistamine pills as Ecstasy.

Being convicted of drug crimes in Los Angeles, especially sale or transportation of drugs, can be rather severe. However, an accusation of drug possession can be based on an illegal search and seizure by law enforcement officials. If proper police procedures are not followed or if someone’s constitutional rights were violated either during search and seizure or during undercover operations, their drug sales case could be dismissed. Please don't assume that you will be found guilty if you have been arrested on suspicion of drug crimes.

Continue reading "LA Drug Counselor Charged With Selling Drugs to Undercover Police Officers" »

Redmond O'Neal, son of actors Ryan O'Neal and Farah Fawcett, has been charged with a felony count of bringing drugs to a Los Angeles area jail, KTLA News reports in a story. O'Neal was reportedly taken into custody after police say they found him to be in possession of heroin at a security checkpoint in the parking lot of the Pitchess Detention Center in Castaic. The 24-year-old O'Neal was apparently at the jail to visit a friend who was incarcerated. When stopped by officials, O'Neal admitted to possessing drugs and is now facing California drug crime charges.

In January, O'Neal pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine. At the time, he was already serving three years probation after pleading guilty to possession of heroin and methamphetamine and driving under the influence.

Both heroin and methamphetamine are illegal or controlled substances. Possessing these substances in any amount is a crime. The penalties of a conviction for sales or drug possession in California are severe. The consequences can be dire if you violate your terms of probation stemming from prior drug crime convictions. However, very often, we find that an accusation of drug possession is based on illegal search and seizure by the police. If your arresting officer did not follow proper police procedures or if your Constitutional rights were violated, the evidence against you could be thrown out and your case can be dismissed.

Please do not plead guilty in a drug crime case without first talking to an experienced California criminal defense law firm. Call an aggressive and skilled California drug crimes attorney at Takakjian & Sitkoff today for a free consultation. We've successfully handled misdemeanor and felony drug crime cases. Call us today.

Former Los Angeles Raiders quarterback Todd Marinovich is back in jail after authorities say the 39-year-old was arrested after missing a drug rehabilitation progress review in a Newport Beach court. According to this news report, Marinovich's alleged probation stems from his guilty plea on California drug charges two years ago. Marinovich pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine, syringe and resisting arrest. The judge at the time placed Marinovich on five years of probation and ordered him to spend one year at a drug rehabilitation center. Marinovich reportedly has nine prior cases in Orange County courts.

A Drug Court in California is a special court that is given the responsibility of select felony and misdemeanor cases involving non-violent drug-using offenders. The program consists of frequent random drug testing, probation, drug treatment counseling and use of sanctions and incentives. The Drug Court Judge is actively involved in supervising offenders who participate in this program. After an individual successfully completes the criminal drug court program, the drug charge against him or her is dismissed. However, when individuals in this program relapse, go back to using drugs, fail to attend or return to their old ways, the court imposes sanctions. In some cases, the defendants may not get a second chance and the judge may impose a jail sentence.

If you or a loved one has been accused of a drug crime or a probation violation in Southern California, please contact California's skilled criminal defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff to discuss your case. We will analyze your case, your history and your current situation to help you decide the best possible course of action. Our goal is to keep you out of jail and get you the help you need. Please call us at 888-579-4844 to find out more about your options.