In recent weeks, Texas police took two people into custody for suspected drug crimes. If a person is taken into custody and has a past criminal record, he or she may be known to law enforcement officers. However, each case must be adjudicated on its own merit, meaning, the court never assumes that a person is guilty of a drug crime, simply because that same person has encountered legal problems in the past.
Texas police believe that one of the two people arrested recently is a gang member. They said that they encountered this person while they were executing a search warrant at a particular residence. They also said that a 28-year-old woman who was in the same residence was seen running out of a rear exit and tossing bags over a fence.
Both were arrested
The investigation resulted in the arrests of both persons. Investigators say that they seized numerous items of contraband from the residence, including drugs, such as methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine. They also said that they seized a stolen motorcycle. The man whom police say is a gang member was charged with unlawful possession of body armor, as well as numerous drug charges.
A past criminal record may influence a case
While a person accused of drug crimes or any type of criminal charges is presumed innocent unless, and only if, proved guilty in court, having a criminal record could affect the outcome of a case. For instance, someone facing DUI charges may incur a more severe penalty for a second or third offense, if convicted, than someone who has never been arrested for drunk driving. In any case, it is helpful to seek legal guidance before heading to court, because an experienced attorney can review a case and recommend defense strategies.