Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
William Patrick Iott, a 25-year-old Milan resident, is now facing federal weapons charges after a Nike shoebox filled with ammunition and a handgun were discovered in his downtown apartment during a drug raid, according to news reports at Mlive.com.
Iott is a convicted felon whose apartment was searched when a search warrant was executed by the ATF and the Livingston and Washtenaw Enforcement Team. Upon searching the apartment, authorities discovered a .38 caliber revolver in a bedroom along with a Nike shoebox containing over 100 rounds for various gun calibers; the box also contained a handgun light, holster, and 34 spent .38 caliber casings according to an affidavit prepared by ATF agent Scott Toth.
Four bags of marijuana were seized from the apartment by officials. Iott admitted to authorities that he smokes marijuana; he also admitted that he sells it, earning about $200 per week. Iott said that he had various caliber ammunition because he was “not done buying guns,” and that the handgun was for protection.
News articles indicate Iott has been convicted in Michigan for eluding police in 2007, possession of a Taser in 2006, and conspiracy to commit larceny/larceny from a motor vehicle in 2005. In addition, Iott allegedly faces state charges involving delivery and manufacturing of a controlled substance (marijuana) and possession of a weapon by a felon according to court records.
Iott had been on parole for prior convictions, but was discharged in October of last year according to state prison records.
A federal charge of possession of a weapon by a felon is extremely serious; however, Michigan drug crime defense attorneys also realize the consequences of a conviction for delivery and manufacture of marijuana or any controlled substance.
While news reports indicate Iott had four bags of marijuana in his possession, he also allegedly admitted that he sells it. The criminal penalties for possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute or manufacture are harsh, and depend upon several factors including an individual’s criminal history and the amount of marijuana involved. For example, if an individual is found in possession of less than 5 kg or 20 marijuana plants which he or she intends to sell or distribute, penalties if convicted include fines of up to $20,000, jail time of up to four (4) years, or both.
Drug crimes are some of the most harshly punished criminal offenses in the state of Michigan. If you have been arrested or are under investigation for possessing or distributing marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, or any illegal narcotic drug, contact a highly skilled Michigan drug crime lawyer right away.