When a person is suspected of a crime in this country, it is understandable that police and other authorities want to seek swift justice and secure a conviction. However, this pursuit for justice must not trample on the rights of the accused. A Georgia man was recently tried and convicted for alleged drug charges that resulted in a severe 80-year sentence.
The accused was arrested on March 10, 2015. Roswell police were tipped off about a supposed drug transaction taking place at the Atlanta Hotel. The hotel had been under watch for some time due to reports of illegal drug activity.
The accused was labeled by authorities as a distributor of illicit drugs. After watching a specific room in the hotel, the alleged perpetrator was arrested when he left the room with $1,100 in cash. After executing a search warrant, police supposedly found cocaine, marijuana, heroin and other drug paraphernalia. In addition, the hotel room also reportedly contained a loaded AK-47. When arrested, the man also had a 9 mm pistol and a .45 caliber handgun on his person.
Regardless of the evidence collected by authorities, a person accused or suspected of drug charges has the right to an attorney, including during the initial questioning phase. By retaining an experienced criminal defense attorney, those accused of a drug crime in Georgia can help ensure that their rights are protected. By consulting with lawyers, they can also ensure that they are fully equipped to make decisions about their cases that will potentially impact the rest of their lives.
Source: Roswell, Ga. Patch., “Roswell Drug Dealer Gets 80-Year Sentence“, Kristal Dixon, June 23, 2016