Late last year, the former administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration was charged with drunk driving. The arresting officer claimed he was driving on the wrong side of the road. A Breathalyzer test was administered, and the man's blood alcohol level registered at 0.07, slightly below the legal limit. However, later tests showed his blood alcohol level was higher.
]]> Recently, a judge dismissed the charges against the former administrator. The dismissal came after video from the arresting officer's patrol car showed that the man was not driving erratically as the officer had first suggested. One source indicates that the judge openly disapproved of the officer's conduct for pulling over the former administrator on what he called a "mere hunch."The former administrator was put on administrative leave two days after his arrest. Shortly after, he resigned from his position. Since the case has been dismissed, the former administrator says he is hoping to once again work in the aviation industry.
"I am thrilled the charges against me have been dismissed at trial and I have been found not guilty," the former administrator said.
Law enforcement officers promise to serve and protect the public. However, as evidenced by this case, there are instances in which they overuse their power and act inappropriately.
Source: Flyingmag.com, "Babbitt DUI Charges Dropped," Stephen Pope, May 15, 2012
]]>A man and a woman who lived at the location are facing a slew of drug charges in connection with the search, including maintaining a dwelling for drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession with intent to sell/deliver marijuana, possession with intent to sell/deliver a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school, manufacturing a schedule VI controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a stolen firearm. The man was also charged on an outstanding civil contempt warrant for failing to pay past child support.
]]> The woman has been released from custody on an unsecured bond of $100,000, while the man was still in custody at the New Hanover County detention facility. His bond stands at $116,000.Drug charges are not taken lightly in North Carolina. While penalties for drug-related offenses vary depending on the charge, all are aggressively prosecuted. People who are charged with such serious crimes, including drug charges, often feel they are sunk before they can even explore their options. People in such a situation -- as well as the police and prosecutors handling their cases -- need to remember that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Source: WWAY, "Another drug bust for Wilmington Police Department," Katelyn Hackett, April 27, 2012
]]>Recently, a jury found a 47-year-old man guilty of felony breaking and entering and felony larceny. These convictions stemmed from accusations that he stole video game systems from Levine Children's Hospital. The jury also convicted him of being unlawfully on premises intended for the use, care or supervision of minors and for being a habitual felon.
]]> According to prosecutors, the man broke into a children's hospital in Charlotte in 2010 where he stole the video game systems. He was caught on the surveillance tape that was placed inside the hospital which showed him carrying a book bag. Police claimed he used this bag to sneak the game systems out of the hospital.The suspect, who is a registered sex offender, was arrested and sentenced to 21 to 27 years in prison.
No matter the circumstances, an individual charged with any crime deserves their day in court. It is important to remember that an individual remains innocent until proven guilty, and no matter the evidence, the prosecution still has to bear its burden of proof to secure a conviction.
Individuals charged with a crime would be wise to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can explore every option the court system offers to either avoid a conviction or minimize any potential penalties.
Source: Charlotte Observer, "Sex offender convicted of stealing games from children's hospital," Meghan Cooke, April 26, 2012
]]>A young man in North Carolina has landed in trouble with the law. His life seemed to be going in the right direction, as he was the freshman star of his college football team in 2010, leading his team in rushing yards. After missing his 2011 season due to injury, however, he now faces drug charges.
]]> Sources claim the accused had an outstanding warrant due to a traffic stop. The stop had resulted in six traffic violations including reckless driving to endanger, speeding and driving without a license or insurance. When police executed the warrant at his apartment they allegedly found a "grinder" used for marijuana, in which marijuana residue was found as well.The football coach of the accused is aware of his player's current situation. He plans to take appropriate action in the future. The young man is scheduled to appear in court in North Carolina later this month.
In North Carolina, misdemeanor drug charges are fairly common. While occurring often, drug charges are still prosecuted rather aggressively. Individuals facing such charges may feel as if no one is on their side and that they have no chance of a positive outcome in court. However, they would likely find it beneficial to begin working with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney will protect their rights and fight for a fair outcome.
Source: NBC Sports, "Drug charge latest setback for NCSU's Mustafa Greene," John Taylor, April 12, 2012
]]>Individuals facing misdemeanor or felony drug charges should remember that their guilt is not certain simply because they were arrested, and the prosecution must prove their case to secure a conviction. A Statesville man recently found himself in such a position. Deputies claim they found heroin in the suspect's vehicle after pulling him over for a traffic stop.
]]> According to the Iredell County Sheriff's Office, he has been charged with a long list of drug crimes, including possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, possession of more than one-half ounce of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle for the possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and operating a vehicle without a license.During the traffic stop, deputies found that while the suspect has currently lived in North Carolina for at least 60 days, he still possessed an Ohio driver's license. Due to the discovery of an outstanding warrant on the suspect from another county, deputies searched his vehicle for any weapons or illegal items.
The search resulted in the discovery of $450 cash, a plastic bag containing 1.1 grams of heroin, three bags of marijuana totaling 22 grams and other items of drug paraphernalia.
Once the search ended, the suspect was placed under arrest and taken to the Iredell County Detention Center, receiving an $8,000 secured bond.
No matter the situation, all individuals charged with a crime should be aware of their rights and make sure they explore their options in dealing with the charges they face. Again, the prosecution must prove their case, and an experienced criminal law attorney can help provide a defense against the accusations.
Source: WBTV, "Traffic stop leads to arrest, drug charges," Nick Needham, April 4, 2012
]]>Recently, a man in North Carolina was arrested for allegedly attempting to kidnap a 7-year old girl. The 18-year-old male suspect lives in a nearby apartment complex where the attempted abduction took place.
]]> According to the police, the man grabbed the 7-year-old girl and picked her up while she was playing and ran behind an apartment building. The girl screamed for help, and the man released her before fleeing the scene.Reports state that a resident of the complex where the alleged attempted abduction took place noticed the suspect had returned and called 911. The 18-year-old man apparently ran from police but was later arrested.
The 18-year-old man has been charged with assault on a child under 12, second degree kidnapping and resisting arrest. His bond was set at $500,000.
No matter the situation, an individual charged with a crime deserves his or her day in court. Individuals charged with a crime would be wise to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can explore every option the court system offers to either avoid a conviction or minimize any potential penalties. Although a person charged with a crime may feel helpless, there are places to turn for help.
Source: WCNC, "Teen accused of trying to kidnap 7-year-old girl," Greg Argos, April 3, 2012
]]>The girls have been charged with a slew of crimes, including felony counts of murder, conspiracy to commit robbery and robbery with firearms.
]]> According to police, in August 2011, a cab company received a call for a driver to be sent to the parking lot of a restaurant. Reports indicate that once the cab arrived the driver was stabbed and left to die as the suspects fled the scene. Police allege that the motivation for the stabbing was robbery, even though the cab driver only had $50 on him at the time of the attack.Three other individuals were arrested in connection with the crime. The 16-year-old girls were arrested shortly after the murder took place but were later released. Although they now face charges, their degree of involvement is questionable.
It must be mentioned that accusations, charges and even arrests do not lead to automatic convictions. No matter the circumstances, police and prosecutors alike must follow protocol and bear their burden of proof before a conviction is secured.
Felonies carry incredibly stiff penalties. To lessen the risk of these penalties, any individual charged with a serious crime may want to consider contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney realizes the impact a conviction may have on an individual's life. They will use their knowledge and experience to protect the rights of individuals charged with any crime, no matter how serious.
Source: ABC News, "Teen Girls Arrested for Cabbie Murder Could Face Life in Prison," Christina Ng, March 26, 2012
]]>Reports indicate that two people were riding their bikes to the right of the white fog line. Police say a 29-year-old man was driving a Toyota pickup truck when he crossed the fog line and struck one of the men on a bicycle.
]]> One of the bicyclists was critically injured and recently passed away. According to reports, the injured bicyclist was not wearing a helmet and was thrown over 100 feet from his bicycle. The accompanying bicyclist was not injured.The man driving the Toyota pickup was charged with DWI, failure to maintain control, transporting spirituous liquor and driving with an open container.
Troopers at the scene performed a Breathalyzer test on the driver and reported that his blood alcohol level registered at .14. In North Carolina, if an individual registers at .08 or above, they are considered to be impaired. The man may face additional charges once the investigation concludes.
While many individuals charged with a crime feel the odds are stacked heavily against them from the start, an experienced criminal defense attorney in North Carolina can even the odds by protecting the rights and interests of the accused. They are able to use their knowledge of the North Carolina court system to defend their clients and work towards a favorable outcome.
Source: The-Dispatch.com, "Bicyclist dies from injuries," Darrick Ignasiak, Mar. 23, 2012
]]>According to the Durham County Sherriff's Office, the two young men were both charged with a list of offenses, including possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, maintaining a dwelling and possession of drug paraphernalia. The basketball player was indefinitely suspended from the NCCU men's basketball team.
]]> The arrest was made while the sheriff's office narcotics unit executed a search warrant at the Durham apartment. According to investigators, 84 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and $12,008 in cash was found in the apartment.The sheriff's office would not discuss the purpose of the search warrant or explain how the two men became targets of a narcotic unit drug investigation. Nothing has been released suggesting the two men have been in trouble with drugs in the past. After each posting a $10,000 bond, the men were released from the Durham County jail.
In addition to criminal prosecution, the accused will also go through NCCU's judicial process. This could result in expulsion from the University.
It must be mentioned that accusations, charges and even arrests do not lead to automatic guilt or convictions. No matter the circumstances, police and prosecutors alike must follow protocol and prove that a person is guilty before a conviction is secured.
Drug charges are serious and often carry very stiff penalties. When a person in North Carolina is facing serious drug charges they would be wise to work with an experienced attorney who can defend an individual against the charges while working to ensure their rights are protected.
Source: News Observer, "NCCU player, roommate face drug charges," Thomasi McDonald, Mar. 10, 2012
]]>Opponents of the legislation question the long term effectiveness of the devices. In most states, the rate of recidivism only drops during the six month period during which those convicted of the offense must use the device. The American Probation and Parole Association also argues that the devices are an unnecessary hindrance on offenders, particularly given the high cost associated with installation and maintenance. The APPA thinks the program to install devices would cost states more than $432 million.
]]> However, there is momentum behind the charge. Mothers Against Drunk Driving is supporting a bill currently buried in Congress that would link federal funds as incentives for passing such laws.The interlock device works by testing the driver's blood alcohol content prior to starting the vehicle. If the test results indicate that the driver was recently drinking, the car will fail to start.
While the ignition interlock device is not yet mandated in North Carolina, changes could be on the horizon that would add further layers of punishment to a crime prosecutors already treat very seriously. With many rather severe consequences linked to a conviction of drunk driving, those facing charges may wish to consider working with an experienced attorney to ensure a proper defense.
Source: DigTriad.com, "NC One of 7 States Considering Ignition Locks For DUI Offenders," Mar. 6, 2012
]]>Sex crimes in particular carry harsh consequences. The mere allegation of a sex crime tends to haunt an individual for life. Even when absolved of the crime, the public scrutiny and stigma alone can lead the accused party to feel the scales are tipped against them from day one.
]]> Neighbors and co-workers alike may view these individuals in a less favorable light. Due to the harsh consequences, the rights of the accused must be properly protected.Police in North Carolina recently arrested a 24-year-old man wanted for rape, conspiracy to commit rape, criminal conspiracy, unlawful restraint, sexual assault, indecent assault and simple assault.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred in July 2010 in Philadelphia. Police claim that DNA evidence led them to the man. After the incident, the Philadelphia police requested assistance in locating the man. The U.S. Marshals Service was contacted when it was discovered that he has ties in North Carolina.
The 24 year old is being held in a North Carolina jail on $250,000 bond. He will likely be extradited back to Philadelphia to face the charges against him.
When charged with a crime, all suspects have the right to legal counsel. Working with an attorney early on in the process may prove to be beneficial. An attorney can investigate a case, negotiate with prosecutors and work towards a favorable outcome.
Source: Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald, "Former Halifax man arrested for rape," Jon Jimison, Feb. 25, 2012
]]>The 66-year-old woman's daughter died in 1970. At the time, the death was ruled an accident after an autopsy revealed that the young girl drowned in a bathtub. However, police claim to have received a tip last year indicating that the death was intentional. According to police, the woman struck her daughter's head against the faucet causing her to drown.
]]> However, the woman maintains her innocence and family members have stuck by her side throughout the whole ordeal. Family members have even suggested that the accusations came after the woman and her adult daughter had a falling out."There is no way on God's green earth that she is capable of something like this," the woman's brother said. "She is no angel, but she's not a monster or an evil person."
The woman is in poor health and has been in jail for the last month as she awaits her next court date. Fortunately, because the woman has not had any runs in with the law in the past, a judge agreed to release her to home confinement.
A case like this raises many questions. Is it fair to use evidence that was collected more than four decades ago? Can police rely solely on the information they received in a tip? Should they have reopened the case despite the girl's death being ruled an accident?
Although it is unclear what will happen in this specific case, it serves as a reminder that those who are charged with a crime remain innocent until proven guilty. Despite the serious nature of the charges, even someone accused of murder has rights and those rights must be protected.
Source: The Sacramento Bee, "Auburn woman accused of killing daughter 42 years ago wins home confinement," Cynthia Hubert, Feb. 29, 2012
]]>Last year, the number of robberies, burglaries, larcenies and auto thefts decreased, but violent crimes, such as rape, aggravated assault and murder increased.
]]> Greensboro's police chief hopes to see the number of violent crimes go down. He says one way to accomplish that is by installing better technology in police vehicles.Violent crimes are particularly serious and can carry with them harsh penalties. A conviction can be life-changing for not only an individual, but also their family. It is for that reason why it is often beneficial for someone who is facing serious allegations to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. With the right help the potential penalties may be reduced or the charges completely dismissed.
Although law enforcement promise to serve and protect, there may be instances when they overuse that power. Even a person who is facing serious criminal charges has rights, and police cannot violate those rights.
An attorney can investigate a case to determine what evidence police have to charge an individual with a crime, as well as work to ensure that an individual's rights have not been violated during the process.
The justice system can be confusing and overwhelming for people. Fortunately, an attorney will have a firm understanding of the relevant laws. They can explain the charges that an individual is facing and the possible penalties while preparing an aggressive defense.
Source: MyFox8.com, "Greensboro PD: Homicides up 47 percent," Joe Borlik, Feb. 24, 2012
]]>The 41-year-old man was arrested on Feb. 10 and charged with two counts of trafficking cocaine and maintaining a vehicle/dwelling. He has no previous drug charges and was released on a $10,000 bond.
]]> The man has coached at the high school for the last 23 years. However, his contract expired on Nov. 30. It appears that his contract was not renewed, and he has not been to the school since then.Police have not said what evidence they had to arrest the man. In a case like this, it is important to remember that anyone charged with a crime is innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Although news headlines often imply guilt, everyone is entitled to a strong defense and a fair trial.
The man in this case, and anyone living in Greensboro facing similar charges, would do well to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can investigate the evidence and ensure that law enforcement did not violate an individual's rights through an illegal search or seizure. In addition, they can prepare a strong defense against the charges.
A drug conviction can be life-changing. An individual may face harsh penalties, but with the right help, the penalties may be minimized or the charges may even be completely dropped.
Source: WFMY News, "Northern Guilford Asst. Coach Arrested on Drug Charges," Feb. 15, 2012
]]>The incident happened around midnight on Christmas Eve. When the 28-year-old security officer failed to show up for his shift, authorities were called for a welfare check. When they arrived, they found the man's body inside his home. It appeared that he died from a gunshot wound.
]]> Police previously arrested an 18-year-old man and 28-year-old man and charged them with first-degree murder and first-degree breaking and entering. Police have now arrested another 18-year-old man from Greensboro on Feb. 1 in Durham. He has been charged with first-degree murder and first-degree burglary. All three men are currently being held in the Guilford County Jail.Police have not said what led them to arrest the three men. However, because of the serious charges, they will likely be in need of a strong criminal defense.
Anyone in Greensboro who faces similar charges would do well to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. In addition to mounting an aggressive defense against the charges, an attorney can investigate a case to be sure law enforcement acted appropriately. Although people assume that police officials act responsibly, that is not always the case. When someone's rights are violated, law enforcement should be held accountable.
Source: News & Record, "Third man charged in Christmas Eve slaying," Feb. 1, 2012
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