A local police patrol in Cape Coral is said to have uncovered a possible marijuana growing operation in a residence in the southwestern portion of the city on March 15. They apparently alerted the force’s narcotics unit, and an investigation was said to have commenced. A man apparently arrived at the home around 5:10 p.m., though there was no indication provided to describe what connection he purportedly had to the residence.
Police say that during a conversation with the man, he allegedly conceded there was a substantial marijuana growing operation inside the house. Armed with that statement and apparent suspicions of a drug trafficking operation, authorities say a search warrant was obtained.
A subsequent search of the home resulted in the seizure of 20 mature plants and 113 pounds of marijuana. The man was arrested for trafficking in marijuana and taken to the Lee County Jail. No reports were made as to bail or when he was scheduled to appear in court.
The Cape Coral drug trafficking allegations made in this matter could spell significant trouble for the accused man. But it is important to emphasize the individual has only been accused of a crime. That is significantly different than being convicted of one. Before a conviction can occur, a number of important legal steps must be taken. And through all of those proceedings, the man is fully entitled to the presumption of innocence, with the burden of proof solely upon the state rather than on him.
Nevertheless, facing drug trafficking allegations is daunting. The mere filing of charges subjects an individual to public scrutiny while he is trying to gather his wits about him to defend himself. Conviction can bring with it substantial penalties, including a prison term and fines, as well as an extended period of probation upon release. For these and other reasons, those charged with similar crimes would do well to focus their attention on each aspect of the criminal complaint in order to prepare a strong defense geared toward acquittal or other favorable resolution of the pending charges.
Source: The News-Press, “Cape Coral police bust marijuana grow house,” March 16, 2012
Subscribe To This Blog’s Feed
