Monday, December 10, 2012

Pot Luck? CU students serve pot brownies to classmates.

The Denver Post recently reported that two University of Colorado Boulder students are facing criminal charges after allegedly feeding pot brownies to their unsuspecting classmates during their "Early Modern History" class (The full article from the Denver Post is available here).  Apparently the class allowed for a potluck on Fridays and the two students thought it was a good idea to bring brownies cooked with marijuana. Unfortunately, several students (and one professor) were sickened after ingesting the brownies. The two students who prepared the brownies were later identified as Thomas Ricardo Cunningham (age 21) and Elizabeth Essa (age 19). Fellow students were puzzled as to how the pair thought they could get away with the prank given that everybody in class knew who brought the brownies. Three people were taken to the hospital after suffering from anxiety attacks and near blackouts. After being questioned by authorities, both suspects admitted to serving the pot brownies to their unwitting classmates. This case comes on the heels of Colorado's recent ballot measure that legalized the recreational use of marijuana and just days before the Governor of Colorado signed a declaration certifying the ballot measure.  More information on the status of marijuana laws in the state of Colorado is available here

While the their acts may have been a well intentioned prank, the two students are now facing serious criminal charges. According to local law enforcement, the students face charges for second degree assault and inducing the consumption of a controlled substance by fraudulent means (and conspiracy relating to those charges).  Based on the charges, the two students could face prison time for what law enforcement are calling a pot brownie "attack". As always, both students are considered innocent until proven guilty. 

The students' prank could not have come at a worse time for the marijuana decriminalization movement.  Many people have fought long and hard to change the public's perception of marijuana. Actions such as the Colorado students' serve to delegitimize the argument that marijuana should be decriminalized, or outright legalized. The students' actions add to the public perception that marijuana is dangerous and that marijuana users are irresponsible criminals. As long as people pull stupid stunts like this, marijuana and its users will continue to be stigmatized and treated as criminals.

Even as our nation makes progress in modernizing its drug laws, each year thousands of people will  be arrested for drug charges. As a result of the so called "war on drugs" criminal gangs will continue to get rich off of users, the government will continue to waste billions of tax dollars and nothing will change. It is plain that the war on drugs has been an abject failure at nearly every level, yet the politicians who rule our country are unwilling to consider real changes to our drug policies. Consequently, each year we spend billions of tax dollars fighting a war that can never be won.  

Until our country changes its policies, people facing drug charges need competent legal representation.  The attorneys Connor & Connor Pllc are prepared to defend Nevadans facing drug charges in either state of federal court.  We are ready to fight for your rights and your liberty. Our attorneys serve clients from all socioeconomic backgrounds and we will fight the charges with everything in our power. Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary. Unlike other firms, we have the ability to accept payment by credit or debit cards if necessary. If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a consultation. You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc. If you have a legal question or if your are in need of legal representation do not hesitate to contact us as any delay could negatively affect your rights.  


Friday, November 30, 2012

New York Cop Gives Homeless Man New Boots


Larry DiPrimo, a New York City police officer, has made national headlines after he was photographed giving a new pair of boots and socks to a homeless man in Times Square on November 14, 2012. According to the New York Post, Officer DiPrimo recalled that it was a very cold night when he noticed a homeless man sleeping on the sidewalk with no shoes (the New York Post article is available here). Officer DiPrimo stated that the man's feet were covered in blisters and he knew that he had to do something to help him so he purchased a pair of boots and socks with his own personal funds to give to the man. Officer DiPrimo described the man as a very kind gentlemen who needed help. Unbeknownst to Officer DiPrimo, his actions were being photographed by a tourist who later posted the images on  the popular social networking site facebook.  Since being posted on facebook the the story has gone viral receiving wide media coverage. The 25 year old DiPrimo, has been overwhelmed by the attention that the story has received, but remains humble.    

A story like this not only reminds us to care for the less fortunate, it also highlights the fact that the relationship between law enforcement and citizens doesn't have to be a negative one. Nevertheless, some groups remain critical of the NYPD following the attention that Officer DiPrimo and the department have received. The Los Angeles Times  recently reported some advocacy groups have had a largely bittersweet reaction to the DiPrimo story given the New York Police Department's history with the homeless (the full article is available here). According to the LA Times, a spokesman for the New York based Coalition for the Homeless, characterized the NYPD's past treatment of the homeless as "brutal". Taking it a step further, a spokesman from the group Picture the Homeless added the following "[t]hat picture gives the impression that the whole department is compassionate. It's not like that."  

While the fact of the matter remains that not all citizen/law enforcement interactions are as cordial as the Officer DiPrimo incident, we should be thankful that there are truly caring law enforcement officers such as him on the force serving our communities. A big step towards improving citizen/law enforcement interactions is simply civility.  A not insignificant number of people are sitting in jail at this very minute simply because they mouthed off to law enforcement officers.  On the other side of the coin, there are numerous situations that were needlessly escalated by overly aggressive law enforcement officers. At the end of the day it is the law enforcement officers job to do just what the job title describes, they are here to enforce the law. Accordingly, officers issue citations, give speeding tickets and make arrests. Obviously, this creates an adversarial situation between law enforcement  who are trying to do their job and the community who want to live their lives and enjoy their liberties.  

People facing criminal charges need quality legal representation. The attorneys Connor & Connor Pllc are prepared to defend your rights and your liberty. We are licensed to represent Nevadans facing criminal charges in either state or federal court. We serve clients from all socioeconomic backgrounds and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  Unlike other firms, we have the ability to accept payment by credit or debit cards if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a  consultation. You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc. If you have a legal question or if your are in need of legal representation do not hesitate to contact us as any delay could negatively affect your rights.  

Monday, November 12, 2012

Las Vegas Police Shoot Man Following Domestic Dispute

According to Action 13 News, Las Vegas Metro Police officers were involved in a shooting on November 11th following a domestic dispute (the full article is available here).  According to the article, LVPD received a call about a domestic disturbance between a man and a woman in the parking lot of the closed Hollywood Park off of East Charleston Blvd.  After removing the woman from the car, the officers shot the man while he remained seated in the vehicle.  It is unclear what prompted the officers to use deadly force, but the man is expected to survive.  According to Las Vegas Sun News, LVPD officers were involved in three shooting in just one week (the Las Vegas Sun article is available here).  The shooting comes just days after another shooting involving the Henderson Nevada Police Department on November 8th (A Las Vegas Review Journal article on that story is available here).  That situation involved a mentally disturbed man who allegedly pointed a gun at SWAT officers during a tense standoff in a drainage ditch across the street from St. Rose Hospital.  The man was shot numerous times by the officers and died of his wounds at the scene.  According to the Las Vegas Review Journal the shooting is the third for the city of Henderson this year.  

Unfortunately, Las Vegas law enforcement officers have been involved in numerous high profile shootings recently.  One notable incident occurred on May 16th of this year when officers shot an unarmed and handcuffed teenager in the back, killing him. Another notorious incident occurred just days before Christmas 2011, when officers shot a Gulf War veteran numerous times in the back of the head with an AR-15 rifle.  It was recently reported that the officers involved in that shooting could face indictment for their actions (our earlier blog post on this incident is available here).  According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, Las Vegas police shot and killed 12 people in 2011 (the report is available here).

The number of law enforcement agencies and personnel has skyrocketed during the past few decades.  Given the increase in agencies and personnel, interaction with law enforcement is simply a daily fact of life for most Americans.  While the majority of law enforcement officers faithfully perform their duties, there are officers who abuse their authority or act in an overly aggressive manner.  Unfortunately, proving that an officer has acted improperly can be an uphill battle. It was recently reported that no officer has ever been held liable by the Las Vegas Police Department following a shooting.  Officers who abuse their authority or act in an overly aggressive manner undermine the public's trust in our justice system putting people who face criminal charges in fear when dealing with authorities.  Often times people's fear of law enforcement causes them to waive their constitutionally protected rights.  Unscrupulous officers will intimidate people into allowing searches without a warrant or to answer questions without an attorney present.  Often times waiving these rights result in criminal charges and convictions which didn't have to happen.

Nevadans who are facing criminal charges need to be accurately advised of their rights.  Nevadans have the right to be free from unreasonable searches, the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.  The attorneys Connor & Connor Pllc are prepared to defend Nevadans facing criminal charges in either state or federal court.  We serve clients from all socioeconomic backgrounds and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a   consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

12 Year Old Girl Shoots Intruder in Her Home

Fox 5 Las Vegas recently reported that a 12 year old Oklahoma girl shot an intruder who forced his way into her home (the full article is available here).  The girl, who was home alone at the time of the incident, telephoned her mother at work claiming that a stranger was knocking at their front door.  After the girl refused to open the door, the man went to the back of the house and kicked in the door-forcing his way into the residence.  The girl's mother told her to get the family gun and hide in the closet, which she did.  According to the article, the girl fired through the closet door as the intruder was turning the nob.  The bullet struck the intruder and sent him running from the residence. Shortly thereafter local police arrived at the scene and arrested 32 year old Stacey Jones.  Mr. Jones was arrested in 2007 for allegedly abducting a 17 year old girl with a history of mental disability. This story provides an excellent example of when the use of deadly force against an intruder is authorized and why the girl in this case should not face charges for shooting the intruder.

Cases like the girl from Oklahoma, and the recent case involving the shooting death of Florida teenager Trayvon Martin have brought the so-called Florida "Stand Your Ground Law" and others like it to nationwide attention and instigated a debate on the use of deadly force in self defense.  In short, "deadly force" is defined as force that has the capacity of inflicting serious bodily injury or death upon another human being.  Firearms and knives obviously have the capacity to cause serious injury or death, consequently using either of them to defend yourself from an attacker is considered the use of deadly force against another person (attempting to list all the weapons and objects that could be considered capable of deadly force would take up an entire novel). Despite variations among the states, the general rule is that use of deadly force against another is authorized when a person is in "reasonable fear of imminent death or great bodily harm."  Therefore, if a person is in reasonable fear that they (or someone else) is in imminent danger of being killed or seriously injured due to the actions of an aggressor who has the capability and the apparent intent to kill or seriously injure, then the individual may use deadly force to stop the aggressor.  This is broadly known as the law of self defense.

To provide a very basic example, if an aggressor is approaching their intended victim with a raised bat stating "I'm going to kill you", a reasonable person would understand this to be a threat that death or great bodily harm was imminent, therefore using deadly force in this situation would almost certainly be appropriate.  However if a person threatens to kill you over a the phone, even if you reasonably believe the person intends to do so, your fear would not give you the right to drive over to their house and shoot them because the threat would not be imminent.  In addition to the fear of imminent death or great bodily harm, some states require that the  victim attempt to retreat, if possible, from the aggressor prior to using deadly force.  Other states, such as Florida and Texas, have no such requirement; these states are informally known as "no retreat" states. 

While the use of deadly force should always be a last resort, Nevada law does provide fairly broad protections for people to defend themselves.  For example, Nevada has some of the least restrictive gun laws in the nation allowing for both open and concealed carry of firearms.  Although, concealed carrying of firearms in Nevada requires a permit and is subject to a variety of limitations. Additionally, Nevada law does not require a victim to retreat from an unprovoked attack. Further, Nevada statute NRS 41.095  provides for the legal presumption that it is reasonable for a person who is lawfully in their home to use deadly force against an intruder or person attempting to break in.  The state of Oklahoma has a similar law, therefore the girl in our story above was well within her rights to use deadly force against the intruder.  However, in spite of Nevada laws meant to protect the rights of citizens to defend themselves, there are often gray areas where Nevadans can face prosecution for the use of deadly force in self defense.  For example, determining whether a person was in reasonable fear of imminent death or bodily harm can largely be a matter of opinion.  Further, the decision on whether to pursue charges against a person claiming self defense is often left up to the local District Attorney who can be subject to immense political pressure to do so (as in the Trayvon Martin case).  Persons claiming self defense can also find themselves in serious trouble if it is unclear as to who the initial aggressor was or in situations where the victim knew the aggressor as in domestic violence situations.

Nevadans who use deadly force in self defense should cooperate with law enforcement, but should not answer questions without first seeking the advice of a competent criminal defense attorney.  If you are facing criminal charges relating to the use of deadly force in self defense, or any other criminal charges, you should contact an attorney immediately.  The attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are ready to defend Nevadans facing criminal charges in either state or federal court. We serve clients from all socioeconomic levels of our community and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and we are willing to negotiate  payment plans if necessary on a case by case basis.  Unlike some law firms, Connor & Connor Pllc is able to accept payment by credit or debit card.  All funds will be placed in our client trust account until earned by the attorney working the case.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Update on Berkeley Law Students Accused of Killing Rare Bird

The case involving the alleged killing of a rare  bird by two U.C. Berkeley Law students at the Las Vegas Flamingo  has made national and even international news during the course of the last week.    Ironically, one of the alleged perpetrators, Justin Teixeira, graduated from UCLA with a degree in environmental studies.  It was also reported that Mr. Teixeira conducted an internship in the Environmental Division of the Department of Justice (the U.S. Department tasked with protecting wildlife).  A follow-up report by Above the Law,  states that there has been a largely mixed reaction from  the accuseds' fellow law students at U.C. Berkeley School of Law (the full article is available here).  Turning to online blogs such as the U.C. Berkeley School of Law related blog Nuts and Boalts, some students have expressed outrage at the alleged actions of the two students, while others have offered support.  No matter what, one thing that people seem to agree on is that both mens' legal careers have been placed in jeopardy.  

Even after attending a well regarded law school such as U.C. Berkeley, which was ranked at the seventh in the nation on the U.S. News and World Report Law School Rankings, finding gainful employment is extremely difficult for recent law grads.  Any blemish on the record of an applicant can almost guarantee being passed over for employment.  In the buyers market that presently exists for most legal employers, a criminal conviction (especially one that made national news) can be a nonstarter.  Further, both of the accused may have trouble passing most state bar associations character and fitness requirements prior to taking the bar exam.  In a nutshell, even if both men finish their law degrees, neither may ever become licensed to practice law.  Of course, both men are considered innocent until proven guilty and we wish them the best of luck as this matter proceeds through the Nevada justice system.  

This case serves as an example that criminal charges (especially convictions) can lead to difficulties beyond the courtroom.  Criminal charges can destroy your reputation and criminal convictions can lead to problems such as attaining student loans, serving in the military, from owning a firearm or from acquiring gainful employment.  Hiring competent defense attorneys can give people facing criminal charges their best chance at avoiding a conviction.  The attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are ready to defend people facing criminal charges in Nevada.  Our attorneys are licensed to practice before all Nevada state and federal courts.  We serve clients from all socioeconomic levels of our community and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and we are willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for  a  consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Two Law Students Accused of Killing Rare Bird in Las Vegas

Two University of California, Berkeley School of Law students stand accused of killing a rare bird at the Flamingo Hotel Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.  According to Above the Law the two students, Eric Cuellar and Justin Teixeira, were charged with felony cruelty to animals after decapitating a rare Helmeted Guinea Fowl inside the Flamingo's wildlife habitat.  However the Las Vegas Sun reported that the Clark County District Attorney's office has not yet filed formal charges against the men.  Nevertheless, the Las Vegas Sun reported that each man has a return date scheduled on February 11, 2013 in Las Vegas Justice Court (the full Las Vegas Sun article is available here).  The Las Vegas Sun also reported a third man was seen on the security video, but his identity remains unknown at this time.  Action 13 News in Las Vegas  reported that the two men chased the bird, severed its head and were seen laughing while throwing the bird's body around.  Hotel security detained the men and called Las Vegas Police around 9:30 a.m.  The Las Vegas Sun reported that both men immediately requested lawyers upon being questioned by detectives.  According to Above the Law, both men hired local counsel and were bailed out by family members.    As always both men are considered innocent until proven guilty. 

While the alleged actions of the two men are disturbing they serve to underscore how a night on the Las Vegas strip can quickly get out of hand.  Every year thousands of young people come to Las Vegas for a good time.  It is no secret that many of the people who come to Las Vegas tend to overindulge in alcohol and cast aside their inhibitions.  Generally a good weekend in Las Vegas results in little more than a hangover and some good memories (or lack thereof), but occasionally people find themselves in trouble with Nevada law enforcement.  While Nevada laws may differ from those of other states, out of state residents who come here are entitled to the same legal rights as Nevada residents.  Notably the two men accused in this situation invoked their right to have an attorney present while being questioned by law enforcement.  Having an attorney present while being questioned by law enforcement is always a good idea, especially when  you are in a state whose laws you might not be familiar with.

If you are charged with a crime in Nevada, the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are ready to defend your rights.  Our attorneys are licensed to practice before all Nevada state and federal courts.  We serve clients from all socioeconomic levels of our community and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and we are willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Sharp increase in DEA medical marijuana arrests

According to Current TV, federal agents of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration have sharply increased their efforts at shutting down medical marijuana dispensaries.  Despite the fact that many states, including Nevada, have legalized medical marijuana, the federal government still outlaws the use of marijuana for any reason.  Some states such as California and Colorado allow for patients to acquire their marijuana through legal dispensaries, however these dispensaries have recently come under attack by federal agents.  The full video is available here:



Despite the fact that medical marijuana is provided for by the Constitution of Nevada, a medical marijuana patient could still face charges under federal law. If you or a loved one has been charged with possession of marijuana you need competent legal representation.  The attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are ready to defend your rights.  Our attorneys are licensed to practice before all Nevada state and federal courts.  We serve clients from all socioeconomic levels of our community and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and we are willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a free consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Las Vegas Police Officer could be charged in killing

According to Fox Five Las Vegas,  Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson  is considering pressing charges against Las Vegas Police Officer, Jesus Arevalo (the full article is available here).  Officer Arevalo shot and killed Stanley Gibson, a U.S. Army Veteran of the Gulf War, ten months ago following a traffic stop.  According to Wolfson, Officer Arevalo shot Mr. Gibson in the back of the head seven times with his AR-15 rifle.    The article notes that an internal investigation cleared the officer of any wrongdoing.  However, the article also points to the fact that no internal investigation has ever found an officer guilty of wrongdoing following a shooting.  The Las Vegas Police Protective Association  (LVPPA) is standing by Officer Arevalo and is adamant that he will be cleared when a video of the incident is shown to the public.  Ironically, the LVPPA's general counsel is former Clark County District Attorney, David Roger (see LVPPA's website here).  Consequently, this case could put the former DA  (who resigned his position last year) up against the current DA.  

Nobody doubts that law enforcement officers have one of the most difficult jobs in our community.  They are often the first to arrive at the scene of an emergency and routinely risk their lives for the sake of others.  Nevertheless, each year law enforcement officers shoot and kill dozens of citizens following routine traffic stops and domestic disputes.  While many of these shootings are deemed justifiable, some of the killings simply cannot be justified based upon the circumstances.  Part of the reason for these incidents is the greater interaction between law enforcement and citizens.  Law enforcement agencies in America have morphed from what were once small community oriented agencies into what are essentially paramilitary organizations equipped with military grade weapons and aircraft.  The increasing size and sophistication  of law enforcement agencies coupled with the war on drugs (and the war on terror) has caused police/citizen confrontations to skyrocket.  During the past few decades law enforcement control has creeped in to virtually every aspect of our lives.  Irrespective of the societal changes of the past century, the United States Constitution guarantees citizens the right due process of law before being denied the right to life, liberty or property.  Unjustified officer shootings are the ultimate denial of our rights by the state.

In addition to the death of the individual, unjustified killings by law enforcement can give rise to criminal penalties for the officers involved and civil liabilities from lawsuits brought on behalf of the victims.  Victims of law enforcement misconduct need competent legal representation.  If you have been charged with a crime or if you or a loved one has been a victim of police misconduct, the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are ready to fight for your rights.  Our attorneys are licensed to practice before all Nevada state and federal courts.  We serve clients from all socioeconomic segments of our community and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a free consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Missing Las Vegas Prosecutor found at U.S. Mexico border

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, former Las Vegas Prosecutor, David Schubert, has been arrested at the United States-Mexico border as he turned himself in (the full article is available here, http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Fugitive-former-Vegas-prosecutor-back-in-custody-3910315.php). Mr. Schubert was a prosecutor with the Clark County District Attorney's office where he worked under former Clark County District Attorney, David Roger, prior to Mr. Roger's resignation.   Mr. Schubert  resigned his position as a prosecutor after he was arrested for possession of crack cocaine and an unregistered firearm in March, 2011.  Mr. Schubert went missing on September 21, 2012 after receiving a 9 month prison sentence in relation to these charges.  

During his time in the District Attorney's office Mr. Schubert gained notoriety for prosecuting high profile celebrities such as Paris Hilton, who he (ironically) had prosecuted for possession of cocaine.  According to the Las Vegas Sun News, Mr. Schubert's law license has been suspended by the Nevada Supreme Court (the article is available here, http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2012/sep/20/nv-prosecutor-drug-charge/).  While it is distressing to see a fellow attorney suffering from problems with addiction, this situation underscores the fact that these issues occur throughout all levels of our community.  We hope that Mr. Schubert is able to receive treatment and overcome these difficulties  after he has served out his sentence.   

Arrests for drug possession can have serious consequences.  Drug possession and firearm violations are prosecuted vigorously by law enforcement.  Nevada residents who have been charged with violations of state or federal drug laws need the advice of a competent attorney.  The attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are licensed to practice law before all Nevada sate and federal courts.  We serve clients from all socioeconomic segments of our community and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a free consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Multiple marijuana growing operations busted by Las Vegas law enforcement.

As was recently reported by Action 13 News, a local man was arrested on suspicion of cultivating marijuana (the full article is available here, http://www.ktnv.com/news/local/171085231.html).   According to the article, Las Vegas SWAT officers executed a search warrant on a home located near the 800 block of East Vegas Valley Drive.  Law enforcement allegedly recovered more than 200 marijuana plants which they claim have a value of over $700,000.00.   The man who was taken into custody was allegedly arrested in another marijuana growing operation last year near Pahrump, Nevada.  

Additionally, on September 13, 2012, another marijuana growing operation was busted by law enforcement on public lands near Mt. Charleston, which lies just outside of Las Vegas (the full article is available here, http://www.ktnv.com/news/local/169723956.html).  Marijuana is commonly grown on public lands in concealed farms.  According to law enforcement,  during the year of 2012 alone, over sixty million dollars worth of marijuana was seized growing on Nevada's public lands (http://www.ktnv.com/news/local/166941896.html).  According to the article a tip lead law enforcement to the grow operation and no arrests have been made.  

While the Constitution of the State of Nevada guarantees residents the right to use marijuana for medical reasons while under a doctor's supervision, the federal government still treats nearly all forms of marijuana cultivation and possession as crimes.   Additionally, unlike the neighboring state of California, Nevada residents with a valid marijuana prescription do not have the ability to visit dispensaries to acquire their marijuana.  Consequently, Nevada residents with a valid marijuana prescription are essentially left with no means to acquire their marijuana and are forced to seek illegal means of production or purchase.   

Nevada state and federal law prohibits the recreational use and possession of marijuana.  Convictions for marijuana offenses can range from relatively minor to extremely harsh.  Convictions for cultivation or distribution of marijuana can result in years behind bars.  Even relatively minor convictions can have serious consequences beyond the criminal penalties such as an inability to acquire student loans or seek gainful employment.

Nevada residents who have been charged with violations of state or federal drug laws need the advice of a competent attorney.  The attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are licensed to practice law before all Nevada sate and federal courts.  We don't judge our clients and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a consultation.  You may contact the firm at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 430-4614, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also visit the firm's page on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc



Thursday, September 13, 2012

Three men sought by law enforcement after Las Vegas shooting

According to News Now (KTLA Las Vegas), three men are being sought by law enforcement following a shooting at a saloon early this morning (the full article is available here, http://www.8newsnow.com/story/19506618/3-men-sought-in-early-morning-shooting).  According to the news article, a security guard was shot in the head during the incident.  Thankfully the security guard survived although he remains in critical condition at this time.  The men being sought were last seen driving away from the saloon in a dark blue pickup truck.     
Given the facts as reported by News Now, the alleged assailants could face charges including, aggravated battery, assault with a deadly weapon and attempted murder.  Each of these charges is a felony and carries the potential for serious jail time.  As always defendants in criminal cases are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Individuals who are facing serious criminal charges literally have the power of the entire state or federal government being levied against them.  Serious criminal charges could result in the loss of your freedom, your property and even your life.  People in this situation require a competent criminal defense attorney.  The attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc are ready to defend individuals from any Nevada state or federal criminal charge.  We don't judge our clients and we will fight the charges with everything in our power to make sure that your rights are protected.  Our rates are reasonable and the firm is willing to negotiate a payment plan if necessary.  If you are facing criminal charges, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc as soon as possible for a consultation.  You may contact the attorneys at info@connorpllc.com, (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com. You may also look the attorneys up on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/ConnorConnorPllc

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Traffic stop ends in Las Vegas area drug raid



According to Fox 5 News Las Vegas, local police executed a search warrant at a Summerlin Home discovering "Spice", a product designed to mimic the effects of marijuana (the full article is available here, http://www.fox5vegas.com/story/19376997/police-searching-summerlin-home-for-drugs).  According to the news report, the search stemmed from a traffic stop earlier in the day.  According to the article, law enforcement is attempting to determine whether the substance was meant for distribution.  Synthetic marijuana has proven difficult to regulate despite Federal attempts by the Drug Enforcement Administration to ban the substance.
This situation demonstrates how Traffic stops can quickly escalate.  Being aware of your rights with regard to vehicle searches and traffic stops can mean the difference between a simple fine and serious criminal charges.  The fourth amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees citizens the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures by government officials without a warrant.  Over the years the courts have eroded our fourth amendment rights giving rise to a variety of so called "warrantless" searches.  A large part of these efforts have been implemented to increase officer safety.  Nevertheless, citizens should know their rights before consenting to a search of their vehicle or answering questions posed to them by law enforcement.  In Nevada a warrantless search may be instigated by reasonable suspicion that a person has committed a crime.  During a traffic stop you may be required to give your name or drivers license, but you are not required to answer questions asked by law enforcement. You have the right to remain silent when questioned by officers.  Further, you are under no obligation to grant law enforcement officer's requests to search you or your property.  Often times officers will simply ask to search you or your property when they know they do not have cause to do so.  Under most circumstances you have the right to decline an officer's request to search your person, your vehicle or your home.  In Nevada an arrest without a warrant may only occur upon probable cause.  If you have been arrested, you have the right to consult with an attorney.  Once you invoke your right to an attorney law enforcement must stop questioning you.   
If you are facing criminal charges in either Nevada state or federal court, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc. as soon as possible for a free consultation.  For a consultation you can email the attorneys at info@connorpllc.com, telephone (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Facing Criminal Charges in Nevada

Being charged with a crime is a serious matter.  Pending criminal charges cause stress on the defendant and their loved ones.  Often times people do not qualify for a court appointed attorney and are forced to hire a private criminal defense attorney to defend their rights.  If you have been charged with a crime in either Nevada State or Federal Court, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc. immediately to discuss your rights.  You can email the attorneys for a free case evaluation at info@connorpllc.com or call (702) 749-4992.  You can visit the firm's website at www.connorpllc.com for more information.