Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
Last week, Prattville, Alabama police executed a drug search warrant at the home of a man suspected of manufacturing methamphetamine. When police went to Edward Melvin Henderson’s home to execute the warrant, he ran into a wooded area behind his home. Authorities were about to give up on the search when they decided to “sic” Henderson’s dog Bo, a husky/pit bull mix, on the suspect.
Bo was seemingly excited to have company, and according to a news article at CNN got his owner busted with a happy wag of the tail. Police told Bo to “go get him,” and that’s exactly what Bo did. Henderson was found hiding in tall grass, and was taken into custody without further incident.
Upon searching the property, investigators recovered meth lab components and methamphetamine. The suspect was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, two counts of unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, and failure to obey police. Relatives have been caring for Bo since the incident.
Manufacturing methamphetamine or maintaining a meth lab is a serious crime, regardless of what state the accused lives in. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential for abuse. In Michigan, those who are convicted of manufacturing or distributing meth may face a substantial number of years or even life in prison.
The criminal penalties for manufacturing methamphetamine in Michigan, regardless of the amount involved, include a maximum prison term of 20 years and/or fines of up to $25,000. Individuals who are convicted of the charges will also face driver’s license suspension and a permanent criminal record. In addition, punishment may be even harsher if the defendant has a prior drug conviction, or if the crime took place within close proximity of a school, church, daycare, park, or home.
Regardless of how serious the situation may seem, it is essential to consult with a highly skilled and capable Michigan drug crime lawyer when you have been arrested or are under investigation. There are many legal options which may work to your advantage; your attorney will focus on having charges dismissed or reduced, or obtaining an acquittal at trial. Without an experienced defense attorney, your freedom and future are at risk.