Henry Cantor
September 26, 2025
Can You Get a Drug Trafficking Charge Dismissed in California? Drug trafficking charges in California are high-stakes felonies that can carry years in prison, heavy fines, and long-term consequences for your future. While challenging, dismissals are possible when the defense suppresses key evidence, undermines “intent to sell,” or exposes flaws in how the case was […]
Henry Cantor
September 15, 2025
Can a Possession of a Controlled Substance Charge Be Dropped in California? Being arrested for simple drug possession can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first time facing the criminal justice system. In California, even a small amount of a controlled substance can lead to criminal charges that put your freedom, career, and future […]
Henry Cantor
August 12, 2025
Being arrested for administering drugs to commit a felony under California Penal Code 222 is a serious matter. In Los Angeles County, prosecutors treat these cases aggressively because they involve allegations of using a substance to impair someone in order to carry out another crime. PC 222 applies whether the substance is illegal, a prescription […]
Henry Cantor
July 10, 2025
Drug manufacturing charges in California are prosecuted aggressively and can carry life-changing consequences. Under California Health & Safety Code § 11379.6, even possessing chemical components or basic lab equipment may be enough to trigger felony charges. If you’re under investigation or have already been arrested, it’s critical that you speak with a Los Angeles drug crime […]
Henry Cantor
May 29, 2025
If you’ve recently been arrested for drug trafficking in California, the stakes are high — but your case may not be hopeless. A conviction for trafficking can lead to years in prison, thousands in fines, immigration consequences, and a permanent felony on your record. But being charged is not the same as being convicted. With […]
Henry Cantor
May 22, 2025
Charged with a Misdemeanor Drug Offense in Los Angeles? Here’s How to Beat It If you’ve recently been arrested for a misdemeanor drug charge in California, there’s no need to panic — but there is a need to act fast. A charge like this may feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first encounter with the […]
Henry Cantor
May 19, 2025
Constructive possession happens when someone is charged with having control over illegal drugs, even if they were not physically holding them. Prosecutors in California — and especially in Los Angeles County — often rely on this legal theory to file drug possession charges when drugs are found in homes, vehicles, or other shared spaces. In […]
Henry Cantor
May 16, 2025
Can You Be Charged with Drug Conspiracy Without Selling Drugs? Yes — in California, you can be charged with drug conspiracy even if you never sold, touched, or personally handled any drugs. Under both California Penal Code 182 and federal law (21 U.S.C. § 846), conspiracy charges focus on agreement and intent — not on […]
Henry Cantor
May 6, 2025
Is Meth Possession a Felony in California? Here’s What You Need to Know Getting arrested for meth possession in California is a serious situation — and the penalties you face depend heavily on the amount involved and the specific charges filed against you. California, especially Los Angeles County, aggressively prosecutes methamphetamine offenses. Even a relatively […]
Henry Cantor
April 16, 2025
HS 11363 – California Law on Cultivating Peyote Most people are familiar with California’s relaxed laws on marijuana—but not everyone realizes that cultivating other plant-based substances, like peyote, is still a crime. Under California Health & Safety Code 11363 HS, it’s illegal to grow, harvest, or prepare peyote, even for personal or spiritual use, unless […]
Henry Cantor
February 7, 2025
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Drug Charges in California: How the Law Determines the Difference California takes drug-related offenses seriously, but not all charges are treated the same. misdemeanor vs. felony drug charges in California depend on several factors, including the type and quantity of the controlled substance, whether there was intent to sell, and the defendant’s […]
Henry Cantor
January 21, 2025
Aiding and Abetting the Use of a Controlled Substance in California Facing charges under California Health and Safety Code 11365 HS can be a stressful and life-changing experience. This statute makes it a criminal offense to be present at a location where someone is unlawfully using or smoking a controlled substance and intentionally aiding, abetting, […]
Henry Cantor
January 16, 2025
Understanding the High Stakes of Federal Drug Conspiracy Allegations Federal drug conspiracy charges are among the most serious allegations in criminal law. Prosecutors bring these cases under 21 U.S.C. § 846, which criminalizes agreements to plan, distribute, or traffic illegal drugs. Unlike possession or trafficking charges, federal drug conspiracy cases do not require physical evidence […]
Henry Cantor
January 8, 2025
When Does Possession Turn Into a Charge of Drug Trafficking? In California, drug possession and trafficking are distinct criminal offenses, with trafficking carrying far more severe penalties. While possession generally refers to holding drugs for personal use, trafficking involves the sale, transportation, or distribution of controlled substances. Prosecutors often attempt to elevate simple possession charges […]
Henry Cantor
January 7, 2025
California Health and Safety Code 11370.9 HS targets money laundering activities related to drug crimes. This statute criminalizes the act of concealing, transferring, or attempting to legitimize funds derived from the illegal sale, manufacturing, or distribution of controlled substances. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, as money laundering often plays a crucial role in supporting organized […]
Henry Cantor
December 25, 2024
LAX Airport Criminal Defense Lawyer – Protecting Your Rights Being arrested or detained at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for drug possession, trafficking, or related offenses can have serious consequences. LAX’s status as one of the busiest airports in the world means it is heavily monitored by agencies like the TSA, Los Angeles Airport Police, […]
Henry Cantor
December 23, 2024
Understanding California Ecstasy Laws and Penalties Ecstasy, commonly referred to as MDMA or Molly, is a Schedule I controlled substance under both federal and California law, indicating its high potential for abuse and lack of recognized medical use. Charges involving ecstasy—whether for possession, intent to sell, or trafficking—carry severe consequences, including incarceration, fines, and a […]
Henry Cantor
December 17, 2024
Understanding California Cocaine Laws: Possession, Sale, and Trafficking Explained Cocaine-related offenses are among the most aggressively prosecuted drug crimes in California. Whether you’re accused of simple possession, intent to sell, or large-scale trafficking, the consequences can be life-altering. California Health and Safety Code sections 11350–11352 set strict penalties for cocaine possession, use, sale, and transportation, […]
Henry Cantor
December 16, 2024
Can I Be Arrested for Drugs That Aren’t Mine? In California, being arrested for drug possession doesn’t automatically mean the drugs belong to you. Law enforcement officers may arrest anyone in close proximity to illegal substances, even if you had no knowledge of their presence or didn’t have any control over them. These situations often […]
Henry Cantor
November 28, 2024
On November 26, 2024, Raj Matharu, a 31-year-old resident of Northridge, California, was indicted on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Federal prosecutors allege that Matharu attempted to smuggle drugs disguised as residue on clothing items, including a cow-print pajama onesie, while preparing to board a flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) […]
Henry Cantor
November 25, 2024
Can You Get a Drug Possession Charge Dropped in California? Being charged with drug possession in Los Angeles can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record that could impact your future. California’s drug laws are strict, but that doesn’t mean a conviction is inevitable. With the right legal representation, you may […]
Henry Cantor
November 8, 2024
California Health & Safety Code 11360(a): Transportation of Marijuana Even in California, where marijuana laws have evolved significantly, transporting marijuana without proper authorization remains a serious offense. Under Health & Safety Code Section 11360(a), transporting marijuana for sale or distribution can be charged as a felony, potentially leading to up to four years in prison, […]
Henry Cantor
November 6, 2024
Understanding Proposition 36 and Its New Penalties for Los Angeles Residents On November 5, 2024, California voters approved Proposition 36, introducing stricter penalties for repeat offenses, particularly for theft and drug-related crimes. This law aims to address issues like retail theft and fentanyl-related drug offenses, which have become increasingly concerning throughout the state. Proposition 36 […]
Henry Cantor
October 31, 2024
Understanding Your Fourth Amendment Rights in California The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. This means that, in general, the police must have a warrant to search your person, home, or property. However, there are important exceptions to this rule, especially when it comes to […]
Henry Cantor
October 21, 2024
Being arrested for drug possession in Los Angeles can be overwhelming, especially with California’s strict drug laws. Depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, you could be facing serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. These consequences can affect your personal life, career, and future opportunities, making it critical […]
Henry Cantor
October 10, 2024
Understanding Drug Diversion in California Facing a drug possession charge in California can lead to serious legal consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, California offers drug diversion programs that may allow eligible individuals to avoid conviction by participating in rehabilitation and treatment instead of serving time. Two of the most […]
Henry Cantor
August 16, 2024
LOS ANGELES, CA – Two Mexican nationals were each sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for their roles in a scheme to distribute over 1 million fentanyl pills in the Los Angeles area. The sentencing took place on August 13, 2024, before United States District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr., marking a significant development in […]
Henry Cantor
August 15, 2024
LOS ANGELES – Five individuals, including two licensed doctors, have been charged in connection with the ketamine overdose that led to the death of actor Matthew Perry in October 2023. The charges, detailed in an 18-count superseding indictment unsealed on August 13, 2024, reflect a coordinated effort among the defendants to illegally supply Perry with […]
Henry Cantor
July 16, 2024
Jestice James has been charged with the murder of her three-year-old twin sons, Josiah and Jestine James. The twins were allegedly exposed to drugs laced with fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced the charges, emphasizing the growing concern over the impact of fentanyl on young children. The […]
Henry Cantor
July 9, 2024
On July 1, 2024, Gustavo Adolfo Aldana-Martinez, 57, of Pico Rivera, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison for his role in a money laundering conspiracy that facilitated the movement of over $15 million in drug proceeds from the United States to international drug trafficking organizations. The sentencing was handed down by United States […]
Henry Cantor
June 25, 2024
The penalty for underage drinking in California can include fines, a suspended driver’s license, community service, and even a criminal record. Underage drinking is defined as the consumption, possession, or purchase of alcohol by anyone under 21, and California enforces these laws strictly to help prevent alcohol-related accidents and long-term harm to young people. If […]
Henry Cantor
May 9, 2024
Photo Credit: (OPERATION “STREET SWEEPER” NETS OVER 100 ARRESTS ALONG MAGNOLIA CORRIDOR) Via: www.riversideca.gov “Operation Street Sweeper” targeted drug-related activities along the Magnolia Avenue corridor in Riverside, Southern California. Law enforcement agencies conducted this major drug bust over a three-week period, resulting in numerous arrests and significant disruption to the local drug trade. The […]
Henry Cantor
April 3, 2024
Guilty Plea to Federal Narcotics Charge In Los Angeles, three men from Sinaloa, Mexico, admitted their roles in a drug trafficking operation. Florencio Camacho Allan, Gerardo Gaxiola Patiño, and Alex Valdez Oroz pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. This charge implicates them in a scheme to distribute over […]
Henry Cantor
March 29, 2024
Defendant’s Right to Have a Lawyer In California, every criminal defendant has the right to legal representation. This right is guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. If a defendant cannot afford a lawyer, the court will appoint one. This is known as a public defender. Defendants can also choose to hire a […]
Henry Cantor
March 18, 2024
The Fourth Amendment’s Influence on Vehicle Searches in California The Fourth Amendment requires probable cause for law enforcement to search vehicles, aiming to prevent unreasonable searches and seizures. Vehicle searches in California adhere to this, with laws allowing adaptations due to vehicles’ dynamic nature. In California, searches need probable cause, in line with the Fourth […]
Henry Cantor
February 26, 2024
Melvin Alexis Diaz Arteaga, 30, from Oakland and a citizen of Honduras, received a 78-month federal prison sentence for six drug charges. These charges were related to his activities in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district, where he was involved in the sale and intent to sell fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. The sentencing, announced by […]
Henry Cantor
February 19, 2024
United States District Judge James Donato sentenced 28-year-old Honduran national Esmun Moyses Moral-Raudales to 6.5 years in prison. He received this sentence for distributing dangerous drugs in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District. Moral-Raudales pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl. Charges and Admission Moral-Raudales pleaded guilty in October 2023 to charges under 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) […]
Henry Cantor
February 12, 2024
Phillip Maurice Allen, a 49-year-old from Stockton, California, faces federal indictment charges for his involvement in cocaine distribution and illegal firearm possession. U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced these charges following a detailed investigation into Allen’s activities. Charges and Legal Implications Cocaine Distribution and Possession with Intent to Distribute: Allen is charged under 21 U.S.C. […]
Henry Cantor
February 1, 2024
Law enforcement officials arrested four individuals in Los Angeles for operating a drug trafficking ring in the San Fernando Valley, as detailed in a 15-count federal grand jury indictment. This operation involved distributing cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. The Operation The indictment reveals a structured drug trafficking network. Giselle Buraye, 23, from Van Nuys, along with […]
Henry Cantor
December 25, 2023
Drug-Impaired Driving in California In California, the law defines drug-impaired driving as operating a vehicle while under the influence of any substance, excluding alcohol, that significantly impairs your muscles, brain, or nervous system. This definition includes a wide range of substances, from illegal drugs like methamphetamine and heroin to legal medications such as marijuana, over-the-counter […]
Arash Hashemi
August 21, 2017
On Friday, August 4, 2017, an explosion erupted in a quiet apartment complex in Woodland Hills, California, seriously injuring one person. Residents of the gated community were shocked to find out that their neighbor was using his unit as a marijuana honey oil lab. Marijuana Honey Oil, which is a derivative of marijuana, extracts THC […]
Arash Hashemi
June 14, 2017
Authorities have charged 22 suspects who have been accused of operating the elaborate cross-border drug trafficking ring linked to the infamous Sinaloa Cartel (which was previously led by Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman). It was discovered that the suspects used homes in the San Gabriel Valley of Southern California as stash houses to store their illicit merchandise. […]
