Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
Recently, 51-year-old Charles “Bennie” Benfer IV was arrested after authorities raided his Marietta, PA home and discovered 111 grams of methamphetamine during the raid, according to news reports. Now, officials believe they have severed a “major artery” of the supply of meth to Lancaster County as they say Benfer had ties to a Mexican cartel.
Authorities claim Benfer had a source in Mesa, AZ who was supplying him with 4 ounces of methamphetamine every week, a source with connections to a Mexican cartel. Spokesman for the Lancaster County DA’s office Brett Hambright commented that 4 ounces is “no small amount,” and that Benfer was “absolutely a major meth supplier in Lancaster County.”
During the raid of Benfer’s home police also discovered paraphernalia used for packaging and selling drugs, along with 86 grams of marijuana. He also had storage sheds in Conoy Township where authorities found additional drug paraphernalia along with oxycodone pills.
Benfer has reportedly served time in prison on 10 occasions since 2000 for various crimes. He was incarcerated at the Lancaster County Prison on February 11, but recently released when a bondsman posted his $150,000 bail. Benfer’s arraignment is scheduled for March 24th. He has been charged with felony drug dealing and related offenses.
In Michigan, drug dealing or trafficking is a serious criminal offense. This is true in every state, and the penalties an individual will face if convicted vary from state to state. In Michigan, those who possess illegal narcotics with the intent to sell those drugs will face punishment which includes up to 4 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000 even for possession of as small an amount of cocaine or ecstasy as 25 grams. The more illegal substance or drug a person has in his possession for the purpose of selling or distributing, the harsher the consequences. Larger amounts of drugs will result in a longer prison sentence and higher fines. Additionally, it is important to note that those who have been found guilty of possession or dealing/trafficking drugs previously will face a lifetime behind bars.
Whether you have been arrested for possession of marijuana or another substance, or are under investigation for a major drug offense such as manufacturing or trafficking an illicit substance, it is imperative to consult with a capable and aggressive Michigan drug crimes lawyer. Your freedom, reputation, and future are at stake. Do not take chances; take action immediately so that your legal rights are protected, and work can begin to protect your freedom.