Category Archives: Drug Crimes
When Do Federal Authorities Have Jurisdiction in Criminal Matters?
While most criminal matters fall under state jurisdiction, federal authorities step in when a case involves certain types of offenses and circumstances. Generally, these are cases that directly impact national security, transcend state borders or involve federal interests. Here is a breakdown of criminal cases within the jurisdiction of federal prosecutors: National security and terrorism… Read More »
Wide-Scale Fentanyl Prosecutions Continue in New Jersey
Fentanyl is a prescription synthetic opioid that, unfortunately, is also distributed illegally throughout the United States. In response, law enforcement has become aggressive in working to shut down illicit fentanyl supply and distribution chains and to prosecute violators. Zealous efforts like these tend to cast wide nets that can subject anyone in possession of fentanyl… Read More »
Mass Overdose Incidents Prompt DEA Initiative Against Fentanyl Traffickers and Suppliers
Fentanyl, an enormously powerful and addictive synthetic opioid, is causing a spike in fatal overdoses across the country. In 2021, fentanyl caused more deaths nationally than guns and auto accidents combined. More recently, the federal Drug Enforcement Administration reports that 29 people died in 58 mass overdose events in seven U.S. cities during a six-week… Read More »
Knowing the Limits of New Jersey’s Legalization of Cannabis
Recreational marijuana use became legal in New Jersey in February 2021 and sale of cannabis products has been authorized at 13 dispensaries around the state starting in April 2022. However, there are still limits on what activities are allowed with respect to possession and use of cannabis. The basic rules governing legal marijuana use are… Read More »
Authorities in New Jersey Step Up Efforts to Prosecute Fentanyl Distributors
A recent spate of arrests and prosecutions related to distribution of fentanyl illustrates how New Jersey and federal authorities are attempting to gain control over an intensifying opioid crisis. As law enforcement ramps up its investigations and prosecutors seek harsh sentences to try to send a message, it is more important than ever for anyone… Read More »
New Jersey Authorities Cracking Down on Opioid Traffickers
As the opioid epidemic continues to rage across the nation, New Jersey authorities are carrying on a multi-track strategy to address the problem. The state attorney general and other law enforcement agencies are pursuing doctors, pharmacists and other professionals who help drive the crisis by issuing improper prescriptions or by otherwise engaging in the illegal… Read More »
The Garden State Fights the Opioid Epidemic
After many years of increases in opiate abuse throughout the country, New Jersey is finally taking meaningful steps to fight this epidemic. Drug overdose deaths in the state have risen nearly 400 percent over the past two decades, with more than 2,000 fatalities in 2016 alone. In 2017, Governor Chris Christie announced the establishment of… Read More »
What Penalties Are Associated with Heroin Possession in New Jersey?
New Jersey is one of many states struggling with an opioid crisis, and heroin is the drug that has been doing the most damage in local communities. The state considers heroin a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance because it has no official medical benefits and a high rate of abuse and addiction. Possession of the… Read More »
Trenton Man Faces Federal Charges in Heroin Ring Investigation
After a two-year investigation, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York William Hochul, Jr. announced the arrests of eight people, including a Trenton man, on federal drug charges related to alleged heroin distribution from Elmira, New York to points in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Authorities claim to have evidence gathered from two informants,… Read More »
Broken Windshield Traffic Stop Leads to Marijuana Possession Bust
It was recently reported that a Dover woman was arrested for marijuana possession following a traffic stop for a broken windshield. According to the New Jersey Herald, an officer patrolling Route 46 pulled over a silver Toyota because of the cracked windshield, but while speaking to the driver, spotted marijuana leaves on the floor boards…. Read More »