While marijuana has received overwhelming praise from multitudes of people across the country, you have to remember that, despite statewide legalization, the little green plant is still considered an illegal substance on the federal level. Due to this circumstance, traveling across state lines with large amounts of this fragrant cargo is not exactly a wise move, as two men from California found out this week. Recently, authorities arrested two men for being involved in the trafficking of marijuana and other, more dangerous substances. Once again, it shows that the legal market is not the only sector for the fragrant green herb in the State of California. So what has transpired along the Golden Shores that has the DEA up in arms? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
Pot Problem
Today, November 20, 2018, a federal grand jury confirmed a 4-count indictment against 42-year old Patrick Maldonado (Madera, California) and 43-year old Elias Zambrano Jr. (Fresno, California) for being involved with illegal drug activities. According to reports, the two Californian men were charged with conspiring to distribute and carry (with an intent to distribute) marijuana and cocaine. Likewise, Maldonado and Zambrano Jr. were charged with felonies for possessing firearms (with intent to use), while Maldonado faces individual, additional charges of cocaine possession. The announcement was officially released by DEA Special Agent in Charge Chris Nielsen and U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott.
In-Depth Investigation
Overall, this case stemmed from an investigation conducted by the Central Valley High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force (including agents from the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, the Sheriff’s Office of Tulare, Kings, and Fresno Counties, and the Fresno Police Department). Based on documents presented in court, Maldonado and Zambrano Jr. had managed the shipment of at least 400 pounds of cannabis (destined for Kansas City, Missouri and a location in Arizona). After entering Maldonado’s residence, agents uncovered a cash amount of $45,281, processed marijuana, and firearms.
If the jury finds them guilty, the two men will be charged with a statutory penalty, resulting in a 40-year imprisonment, a minimum of 5 years in prison, and a staggering fine of $5 million.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
