Defending yourself in federal court is a daunting proposition for anyone. Upon the judge's decision, it could mean years behind bars in a federal prison and damage to one's personal and professional reputation after release. No matter what action the federal government alleges, those accused always have access to help. The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team provides the representation you need when federal charges threaten your future. Call us at 888-535-3686or fill out our confidential consultation form.

Police Uncover Heroin Trafficking in Cliffside Hills and Harrison

For the last three years, police have been investigating drug trafficking activity in and around Harrison, New Jersey. Early on in the investigation, they learned that 37-year-old Dawan A. Brown was allegedly involved in distributing narcotics in the area. Shortly thereafter, law enforcement executed search warrants at a Harrison apartment and at Brown's residence in Cliffside Park.

Between the two residences, authorities recovered approximately two kilograms of narcotics "suspected to contain amounts of heroin and fentanyl." Law enforcement also found paraphernalia used to package and distribute drugs—scales, vacuum bags, a safe, a ledger—and more than $200,000 in cash. Officers also recovered $225,000 from safety deposit boxes that were associated with Brown.

After three years, as a part of a plea agreement made in Newark federal court, Brown was charged and convicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of heroin. He was sentenced to 72 months in prison and forfeited $436,615.95 in proceeds from trafficking. Upon his release, Brown will be supervised for at least four years.

Challenging Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

Although individuals may feel vulnerable given the severity of federal drug trafficking charges, there are still avenues for defense. Recognizing weaknesses in the prosecution is essential, and it requires a detailed approach.

Some potential issues that could be exploited in the case are:

• Were the police's initial observations from January 2022 legal and intelligence obtained with probable cause?
• Did law enforcement violate Brown's Fourth Amendment rights by carrying out the search warrants?
• Can the prosecution confirm the chain of custody for the uncovered evidence?

Beyond challenging the validity of evidence and its retrieval, Brown's representation would weigh the advantages of plea bargains against the potential risks of going to trial. If it's the most strategic choice, negotiations with prosecutors can reduce the charges or lessen the judge's punishment. For instance, if a plea deal leads to forfeiting assets or funds, it could produce a shorter sentence or probationary measures. After sentencing, defendants can still seek redress through post-conviction relief, such as advocating for drug rehabilitative programs in return for an earlier release date.

The Lento Law Firm Is Your Federal Criminal Defense Outlet

It can seem like there is no way to defend yourself when the federal government levies charges against you. However, no position is indefensible, and to protect your future, you need a legal team dedicated to your relief.

The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team stands prepared to challenge any federal charge against you. We understand the procedures federal authorities must use to surveil, execute warrants, and substantiate charges, and we will exploit any derivation from standard protocols. Trust our experience with clients throughout New Jersey. Call us now at 888-535-3686 or fill out our confidential consultation form.