National attitudes about marijuana use have been changing in the United States over the last few years -- especially now that some states have even legalized the drug for recreational use. However, it is important for Oregon residents to remember that marijuana is still considered an illegal drug in the state -- outside of the medical marijuana program. Furthermore, the federal government still considers marijuana to be an illegal substance. Therefore, people who are caught using, growing or selling marijuana can face serious federal and state drug charges.
Recently, a group of law enforcement agencies -- including the FBI, the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and the Portland Police Bureau SWAT team -- worked together to serve warrants and make drug related arrests. In this case, the agencies were investigating marijuana use and cultivation.
The Portland property -- located near Southeast Clatsop Street and Southeast 87th -- was apparently searched early one morning. While the details about the drug charges and specific arrests were not released, reports claim that an illegal marijuana grow operation was uncovered in the search of a property. Another property in Welches, Oregon was also searched as a part of this investigation.
When someone is charged with drug crimes, the exact charges can vary quite a bit depending on the facts in each case. While marijuana use can result in drug charges, drug possession charges tend to be much less severe than charges for drug cultivation or drug trafficking. People who are accused of drug crimes need to make sure they understand the distinction among the various charges, since a criminal defense strategy can vary in each particular case.
Source: KOIN, "FBI, SWAT teams raid Portland area spots," Brent Weisberg, June 5, 2014
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