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Federal drug trafficking sweep in Memphis results in 10 arrests

On Behalf of | Dec 4, 2017 | Drug Crimes

A joint law enforcement effort in Tennessee that lasted several months culminated in the arrest of 10 suspects between the ages of 27 and 59, all in the Memphis metropolitan area. According to press reports issued by the Memphis Police Department, the arrests were followed by arraignments in federal court where the suspects were informed of the felony drug charges filed against them.

Although all the arrests took place in Memphis, federal agents collaborated with state and municipal law enforcement officers across the western region of Tennessee as they investigated the alleged activities of a drug distribution network. A special agent from the Federal Investigation Bureau explained that the arrests were part of a larger effort to prevent the trafficking of narcotics and firearms in the state although there was no mention of any confiscations or seizures.

The 10 suspects face charges of conspiracy to possess and intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, 5 kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride in powder form, and 500 grams of methamphetamine. Only the conspiracy charges have been reported, which suggests that the agents may have conducted surveillance or else relied on the testimony provided by confidential informants.

Felony charges filed on the basis of drug crimes tend to have serious consequences. Federal prosecutors may be able to get convictions based on the conspiracy charges alone; nonetheless, a seasoned criminal defense attorney may be able to formulate an assertive strategy to dismiss or reduce charges. In the federal justice system, there is also the opportunity to request drug diversion programs to minimize prison sentences.

State Bar of Georgia
TBA | Tennessee Bar Association
CBA | Chattanooga Bar Association

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