A massive drug sweep in South Carolina has led to the recovery of several pounds of drugs, weapons and cash and is responsible for placing several people behind bars. Local authorities are not taking the illegal drug problem in the state lightly, and those accused of taking part in such activity are facing serious charges in drug court. If convicted of these charges, severe consequences may follow.
Police in Lancaster, through an investigation known as “Operation Stamp Out,” recently arrested 61 people for their alleged involvement in the manufacturing and/or distribution of illegal or prescription substances. In total, 117 charges have been filed against them. During the arrests, local authorities supposedly confiscated over 600 grams of cocaine, over 300 doses of narcotics, over $10,000 in cash and several weapons.
Many of those arrested apparently have previous criminal records, including drug charges and other violent crimes. Some of them were out on bond at the time and waiting for court dates for previous charges when the arrests were made. Currently, those recently arrested are still waiting for bond hearings, and it is unknown when their cases will be heard in court.
Regardless of one’s previous criminal background, those accused of a crime have the right to the presumption of innocence until proved guilty in a court of law. A conviction in drug court may lead to severe consequences for those accused. South Carolina residents facing drug charges are guaranteed the right to defend themselves in court. Doing so may possibly help lessen the negative consequences they face if convicted of the criminal charges against them.
Source: charlotteobserver.com, 61 charged in Lancaster County drug sweep, Andrew Dys, Jan. 24, 2014