On May 10, it was reported that Texas authorities took 10 people who were believed to be involved in a drug trafficking ring into custody. Called Operation Clean Sweep, the sting began in September 2016 after authorities received a tip about potential narcotics activity occurring in Cedar Park.
Of the 10 who were taken into custody, only one person’s identity was released. The man, age 28, was taken into custody on April 27 after authorities recovered 40 pounds of marijuana at his home. He allegedly admitted that he had purchased the marijuana in Oregon and had it shipped to his home in Austin. He faces multiple charges, including possession of marijuana, intent to deliver a controlled substance and a parole violation.
Other drugs and items related to the case were also recovered during the investigation. They include 7 pounds of THC in wax form, 230 prescription pills, 274 grams of cocaine, 14 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, firearms and about $190,000 in cash. Authorities did not release information on the other accused individuals to prevent jeopardizing the investigation.
Texas prosecutors are particularly known to be aggressive when to comes to drug charges, particularly when those charges include drug manufacturing or drug trafficking. For example, people accused of trafficking drugs could be facing years in prison in addition to other legal consequences, especially if they have a prior criminal history. A criminal law attorney could, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case, defend against the charges. However, the type of defense may depend on the evidence the prosecution has against the accused person and a variety of other factors.
Source: KXAN, “Cedar Park police arrest 10 in cross-country drug smuggling ring“, Andy Jechow, May 10, 2017
