Three residents of Hagerstown, Maryland, are facing serious criminal allegations after they were supposedly found with large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin. The trio will be held accountable for drug charges associated with a massive bust that occurred around the end of the year. Authorities say that the drugs are valued at about $50,000. About 188 grams of suspected heroin were seized in the raid, along with nearly 100 grams of suspected methamphetamine.
The trio comprises a 22-year-old woman, along with two men, ages 26 and 28. All three are facing drug charges, though the 26-year-old is currently being held without bond. That young man apparently attempted to escape while still wearing handcuffs, though he was captured shortly after the attempt. The young man fell and struck himself during the escape attempt, so he had to receive treatment from a local hospital. The other two defendants are being held at the Washington County Detention Center, as well, each with a $50,000 bond.
So far, the 26-year-old man is facing a five-count indictment for possession of a controlled dangerous substance. He is also accused of drug distribution in connection with the narcotics found at the residence. The other two defendants are also facing distribution and possession charges, with the woman facing additional firearms allegations and accusations related to theft.
This trio of defendants is facing a wide variety of drug charges in connection with the bust that was orchestrated by a narcotics task force in the area. Even though the defendants have been charged, it is important to note that news reports call the substances "suspected" heroin and methamphetamine. Those substances must be tested to confirm their chemical composition. Criminal defense attorneys in such cases may be able to protect the rights of those facing drug charges, especially by ensuring that proper protocol is followed during those drug testing procedures. Maryland residents who are facing drug charges may benefit from the expertise of a qualified criminal defense attorney, who may be able to work to reduce charges and protect defendants' courtroom rights.
Source: Herald-Mail Media, "Three charged in Hagerstown narcotics bust" Julie Greene, Jan. 03, 2014