Maryland Man Faces Weapons, Drug Charges

When a person commits a crime, they will often face state charges. In some cases, though, they may face federal charges, which are much more severe. This is often the case in situations where a firearm was used in a drug crime.

Drug and weapon charges are no laughing matter, as a Maryland man can attest. Lamonte Montae Young, 41, is facing several charges, including possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person.

On June 12, a criminal information—which is like an indictment, minus the grand jury—was filed against the man, who is also known as Fats. In December 2019, Frederick Police and U.S. Homeland Security began investigating the man in connection to cocaine trafficking. A couple months later, on February 25, police officers began conducting surveillance on Young. They followed him into Virginia, where they saw him engage in a possible drug transaction. Police conducted a traffic stop as he was on his way back to Maryland. They seized 21 kilos of cocaine and 1.5 kilos of heroin.

Police obtained search warrants on strash houses in Frederick and Hagerstown. Officers obtain an additional 344 grams of heroin, $270,000 in cash and three handguns. One firearm was reported stolen.

The drug and weapons charges at the state level were dropped. The case was transferred to federal prosecutors because the drug operation crossed state lines. If Young is convicted of federal charges, he could face decades in prison. Young has already made two court appearances—on July 24 and July 31.

Federal Charges for Weapon Violations

Depending on the type of crime you commit, you could end up in federal court. This is especially true for weapons charges. Federal charges are much more severe than ones at the state level. These charges involve mandatory minimum sentences, which is why you need to avoid federal charges if at all possible. There are two main ways in which a person can face federal penalties for weapons charges:

• Firearm used in drug trafficking or violent crime.

  When a person uses a firearm to commit a violent crime or engage in drug trafficking, they could face as many as 30 years in prison.

• Felon in possession of a firearm.

  Not everyone has the right to bear arms. Those convicted of felonies lose this right. If you are in possession of a gun despite having a felony on your criminal record, then you could face up to 10 years in prison.

Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Weapon charges combined with drug charges can result in serious penalties. These cases often lead to federal charges, which can mean hefty fines and many years in prison.

Defend yourself with help from the Columbia weapons charges attorneys at The Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. These cases should not be taken lightly. Schedule a free consultation with our experienced team today by filling out the online form or calling (410) 774-5987. We have two offices to serve you.

Resource:

wfmd.com/2020/07/27/frederick-man-faces-federal-drug-weapons-charges/

https://www.marylandlawhelp.com/maryland-man-pleads-guilty-to-illegally-shooting-owl/