Yesterday, four former LSU football players, including Jordan Jefferson and Tyrann Mathieu were arrested for possession of marijuana charges. Jefferson and Mathieu were arrested for simple possession of marijuana while the other two were arrested for second offense possession of marijuana and possession with intent to distribute. The actual crimes for which the men will be formally charged by the prosecutor remain to be determined.
The difference between the charges is important because all these charges differ in severity. Possession of marijuana first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by 0-6 months in jail and a fine. Possession of marijuana second offense is a felony punishable by 0-5 years in prison. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony that carries a sentencing range of 5-30 years in prison. Important facts that the prosecution would likely use to prove “intent to distribute” may include the possession of a digital scale and baggies.
For more information regarding this topic, visit https://www.attorneycarl.com/page.php?page=baton-rouge-marijuana-possession-lawyer.
If you or someone you know has a marijuana charge, contact Carl Barkemeyer, Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyer, at (225) 964-6720.