Drug-related charges have serious consequences in the state of Georgia. For example, one could experience felony drug charges for possessing more than one ounce of marijuana, possessing marijuana in a school zone, possessing near a park or possessing near a recreation facility. If convicted, these charges could result in lengthy incarceration time and fines up to $20,000.

In recent local news, seven individuals face various drug-related allegations. It started as a search for a stolen cell phone; however, the result was a large stash of drugs and guns. Using the high-tech phone application, "Find my iPhone," police were able to locate a stolen device. The application lead investigators to a specific area and also indicated that the phone was in the northeast corner of a building.

Once police infiltrated the area, they found an apartment with lights on and noticed a pungent odor of marijuana coming from the residence. When they knocked and announced themselves, one suspect allegedly attempted to flee off of the balcony. To the officers' surprise, they found a stash that included 1,100 grams of marijuana; an assault rifle; five handguns; 42 tablets of Oxycodone and a digital scale.

The suspects in this case are against serious drug charges. In addition, some of the individuals face theft and weapons charges. Because the suspects may experience serious consequences and a loss of basic rights, it would be in their best interest to pursue legal assistance. A conviction could impact these individuals for the rest of their lives.

Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, "7 charged after stolen iphone leads Marietta police to drugs, guns," Fran Jeffries and David Ibata, Jan. 17, 2012