A Sept. 23 round-up of alleged drug offenders led to 51 warrants being executed and 34 individuals being taken into custody. While the primary focus of the effort involved drug charges, additional violations included driving under suspension as well as charges in connection with sex offender registration.
Authorities indicate that the round-up followed an undercover investigation and operation that spanned many months. The sheriff's office in Union, South Carolina, noted that it will continue to seek out and detain those involved in the illegal sale of narcotics. The agency's goal is to reportedly curb the associated violence. While the operation resulted in a large number of charges against many individuals, officials report that the effort is not complete and that many more charges are pending. Additionally, more individuals are expected to be detained.
Drugs allegedly at issue in the round-up include marijuana, crack cocaine, methamphetamine and other controlled substances. Some individuals face charges related to drug distribution in close range of schools. One individual detained was not initially charged with drug crimes but does face charges of hindering officials and driving under suspension, third offense. It is important to note that allegations do not imply guilt. While the police officers have made a sweeping effort to detain alleged drug offenders, there is the potential for error. An individual detained and charged in a similar situation might find that it is important to work with a defense lawyer to ensure that civil rights are observed.
Because every situation is unique, it is important to remember that an individual has a right to present a defense in connection with drug charges. A defense lawyer may begin to assist by evaluating search and seizure issues in such a case to verify that a client's rights have not been violated in a mass round-up.
Source: News 2, "34 charged in SC county 'drug round-up'", September 24, 2014
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