Multiple law enforcement agencies assisted the police in Salinas as the department raided six locations. Police arrested seven individuals, including a 24-year-old man dubbed the “Cocaine Cowboy” who had been arrested a month earlier at the California Rodeo Salinas. Law enforcement claim to have recognized him as a known gang member and reportedly found cocaine in his cowboy boot during that arrest.
Police encountered the man again while searching 1430 Linwood Drive. The search of that location allegedly yielded heroin and cocaine that police suspected was for sale. Authorities recorded finding a stolen firearm as well. A 22-year-old woman was also arrested at that location.
More arrests occurred after raids in Soledad on Barcelona Street. Police reported that weapons and body armor were present at that residence, and they arrested two more men. Searches conducted at 15 Geary Circle and Cordoba Street in Soledad resulted in the arrest of three more people. Altogether, police reportedly seized stolen merchandise, such as jewelry and designer products, 1.5 pounds of cocaine, 8 ounces of heroin, 10 ounces of methamphetamine, cash, multiple firearms, ammunition and body armor. The suspects face various criminal charges related to drug trafficking, firearms violations and gang conspiracy.
When a person stands accused of drug trafficking, the efforts of a criminal defense attorney might be able to counteract aggressive prosecution. An attorney may review law enforcement actions and challenge evidence collected during an unlawful search and seizure. An attorney might be able to get charges reduced if the evidence appears insufficient to convict on the strongest charges. The legal insights of an attorney may prepare a person to enter a plea. Whether someone goes to trial or seeks a plea deal, an attorney may act as an advocate for fair treatment.
Source: The Californian, “Cocaine cowboy caught with drugs again, Salinas police say“, Joe Szydlowski, Aug. 10, 2018