There are a variety of factors that can enhance drug charges in Utah. Not all drug possession charges are created equal. Therefore, it is important that people facing charges for drug crimes understand the specific charges that they are facing so that they can properly fight the charges. Some factors that can enhance drug charges were present in a recent case.
In this case, a 35-year-old man was arrested when his parole officer showed up at his residence to check-in. According to the officer, the man arrived home and took an unusual path outside the home. Therefore, the officer went to look in the area the man walked. The officer alleges that he found a glass pipe on the ground on the path. The glass pipe apparently had a burnt end and white residue inside.
Therefore, the man was arrested. He has been charged with a class A misdemeanor for drug paraphernalia possession. Furthermore, the man has been charged with second-degree drug possession charge. This charge was enhanced because his home was located within a drug free zone — it was only 640 feet from a church. An $11,940 bail was set in the case.
The location of a drug possession arrest, the type of drug involved and the amount of drugs found can all change the type of charges and the penalties that a person faces. Potential penalties can include large fines, prison time and probation. These penalties can have a long-lasting effect on a person’s ability to find stable housing and employment. Challenging evidence related to these factors can be crucial in avoiding conviction and these penalties. With the right help, people can see reduced charges and penalties.
Source: St George News, “Parolee arrested for felony drug possession,” Kimberly Scott, Sept. 21, 2014