Drug Crimes

Border Patrol agents seized more than 185 pounds of marijuana from a vehicle stopped at the Interstate 15 checkpoint south of Temecula in late August, authorities said. Agents stopped a northbound GMC Yukon about 9 a.m. at the checkpoint and noticed a strong smell of cologne coming from the SUV, a Border Patrol news release said. The cologne raised agents’ suspicions because drug smugglers sometimes use cologne to mask the scent of illegal drugs. A Border Patrol sniffer dog “alerted” to drugs in the vehicle and agents discovered 59 packages of marijuana in a false compartment in the SUV’s floor, the release said. The driver and the passenger were taken into custody and face serious felony charges.
Possession of marijuana for sale is a very serious charge in California and can lead to significant prison time. The laws regarding checkpoints are complex and anyone facing criminal charges in California stemming form a stop at a checkpoint should consult with an experienced San Diego defense attorney to discuss their legal matter. An experienced attorney can advise on potential defenses and help explain the legal process.
Facing criminal charges can be one of the most stressful times a person goes through in their life. At the law offices of Wallin & Klarich, we pride ourselves on helping our clients get through these difficult times and helping them get the best possible outcome in their cases. If you or a loved on are facing criminal charges in California don’t hesitate to contact our offices for a free consultation. We’ll be there when you call.

It was recently reported that Leif Garrett, best known as a teen idol during the late 1970’s and early 80’s, pleaded not guilty to one count of felony heroin possession. Garrett was taken into custody after police found him with heroin on February 1st. He had previously been arrested three other times for similar charges: in 2006 for heroin possession, in 1999 for trying to buy drugs, and in 1979 for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol (DUI).

A person charged under California Health And Safety Code Section 11350 does not have to be using a drug, selling a drug, or under the influence of a drug at the time of the arrest. Simply possessing an illegal controlled substance is enough for someone to be charged with felony drug possession. The offense of possession of a controlled substance in California carries a sentence of up to three years in state prison. Possession does not just only mean on your person. Having drugs in your car while you are in it constitutes possession under the law.

If you or a loved one is facing a drug possession charge, whether it is your first offense or not, our experienced San Diego drug defense attorneys at Wallin and Klarich can help you. Our San Diego drug defense attorneys understand the law and will investigate your case to provide you with a strong defense. Our attorneys will look at all the options available to you to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best legal counsel. Call 1-877-230-1529 to speak to one of Wallin & Klarich’s aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorneys in California today. Please visit us at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.

San Diego Channel 6 recently reported that Matthew McKinney was arrested on multiple drug charges in La Mesa. He is facing charges for possession of heroin for sale after the police confiscated 25 grams of heroin. The police also found multiple marijuana plants, a loaded shotgun and handgun, and thousands in cash. McKinney is also charged with growing marijuana and drug and firearm possession. He was arrested at his apartment and taken to county jail.

Those facing drug charges in California are facing serious penalties. From minor to serious drug charges, penalties are very stern and can include jail time, fines, and driver’s license suspension. However, if you hire an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney, your attorney can help you find other alternatives.

Depending upon the facts of your case, you may be eligible for “drug court,” “Prop. 36,” “PC 1000,” or perhaps dismissed or reduced charges. If you or a loved one are accused of more serious drug charges, our skilled and knowledgeable San Diego criminal defense attorneys will help ensure that your rights are protected and provide you with a strong defense to lead to a favorable outcome. Contact us as soon as possible via phone at 1-877-230-1529 or fill out our consultation form online at www.wklaw-sandiego.com for a free evaluation of your San Diego County case. We’ll help you figure out the next step, and answer any questions you might have.

The Unites States Justice Department released a memo recently stating that it would not be a good use of federal prosecutors’ time to arrest people who use or provide medical marijuana in strict compliance with state law. The guidelines, however, do make it clear that federal agents will go after people whose marijuana distribution goes beyond what is permitted under state law or use medical marijuana as a cover for other crimes.

California’s medical marijuana laws allow for the distribution and use of small amounts of medical marijuana prescribed to chronically ill patients through a medical professional. The prescribed marijuana can be picked up at local dispensaries, just like you would pick up a prescription at a pharmacy.

What does this mean for San Diego? Well, the San Diego City Councill has made a concerted effort to slow down and effectively eliminate new dispensaries in San Diego County, citing conflicts with federal law as a main issue. The new federal guidelines should help the City Council in its ultimate decision and make it easier for chronically ill patients to get the prescriptions they need.

If you or someone in your family has been charged with possession of medically prescribed marijuana, it is important that you hire an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney. The attorneys at Wallin and Klarich have over 30 years of experience in dealing with both state and federal drug charges. Our attorneys are very familiar with California state controlled substance laws and a good track record in the federal court system. Our attorneys can be reached by phone at 1-877-230-1529 or through our website at www.wklaw.com.