Louisiana man handed new drug charges while on probation

Ascension Parish Sheriff’s deputies detained a 26-year-old man on multiple drug charges after a recent drug operation conducted by law enforcement officials. According to the APSO, detectives searched the man’s vehicle and Gonzales home and found marijuana and a handgun. Deputies took him into custody at around 1 a.m. on Oct. 8, reportedly.

Undercover detectives allegedly purchased marijuana from the 26-year-old man. After searching his vehicle, detectives purportedly discovered a handgun and more marijuana. A search was then conducted at the man’s home, where detectives allegedly found a second handgun, synthetic cannabinoids, drug paraphernalia and over $11,000 in cash.

The man if facing numerous charges, including possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of synthetic cannabinoids, distribution of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Prior to these drug charges, the 26-year-old man had been convicted of felony marijuana offenses, according to authorities. At the time of his Oct. 8 detention, the man was reportedly serving probation for his past conviction, authorities reported. Detectives indicated that the drug bust was the second time in two weeks that they had located a significant amount of drugs and cash in the area.

It is important to remember that all accused individuals are innocent until proven otherwise, and the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt belongs to the state. This job may become even more difficult for prosecutors when accused individuals retain the counsel and resources of a criminal defense attorney, who may help establish an exhaustive and multi-pronged defense against the drug charges. In the event that the prosecution’s case does not stand up to earnest scrutiny, the drug charges may be reduced or dropped altogether.

Source: WAFB, “Sheriff: Convicted felon arrested on drug charges; $11,000 found in residence“, Amber Stegall, October 08, 2014