Two men, reportedly with felony criminal records, are back behind bars following a traffic stop in Des Moines. Iowa police have filed multiple drug charges against both men, aged 44 and 41 respectively, and are awaiting a trial date. Convictions could send the men back to prison for a period of years, which is why their criminal defense representation is so important to the legal process.
According to police, around 2:40 a.m. the morning of Dec. 18, officers in Des Moines pulled over a vehicle after noticing expired registration tags. The vehicle was being driven by the 44-year-old man, with the 41-year-old in the passenger seat. A subsequent search of their vehicle reportedly turned up a bag containing 11 grams of what is believed to be methamphetamine. Police say this amount is consistent with trafficking as opposed to personal use.
Officers say they also seized substances believed to be marijuana and cocaine, as well as sundry drug paraphernalia. A handgun was also discovered. As felons, it is illegal for either man to possess a firearm. The driver is now being held on $50,000 bond. The passenger is facing the same charges but it’s unclear if he is still in police custody.
Drug charges can significantly impact the life of an Iowa resident. This is particularly true of one with an existing criminal record, as penalties for crimes can be even more significant for felons. This is why both men will be represented by a defense attorney during all court proceedings, in the hope that a compelling case can be made in each man’s defense.
