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Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance in a Place of Worship Defense Attorney in DuPage County
Fighting Charges of Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance in a Place of Worship in DuPage County, Illinois
Drug charges in Illinois are treated with the utmost seriousness, and offenses occurring in sensitive areas like places of worship carry even stricter penalties. Under 720 ILCS 570/407, the delivery of controlled substances in or near a place of worship is classified as a Class X felony, one of the harshest charges under Illinois law. In DuPage County, encompassing cities such as Naperville, Wheaton, and Elmhurst, the justice system prioritizes the prosecution of drug crimes in these protected zones.
At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we are committed to defending those accused of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance near places of worship. With decades of experience in DuPage County, we understand how to navigate the complexities of Illinois drug laws to protect our clients’ rights and future.
What Illinois Law Says About Drug Delivery Near Places of Worship
The unlawful delivery of a controlled substance in a place of worship is addressed under 720 ILCS 570/407, which enhances penalties for drug-related offenses committed within 1,000 feet of certain protected areas, including schools, parks, and places of worship. The statute applies to the delivery or sale of controlled substances such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana exceeding legal possession limits, and unlawfully distributed prescription medications.
This offense is classified as a Class X felony, carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of six years in prison and a maximum of 30 years. These penalties can increase if aggravating factors, such as prior convictions, are present. Fines of up to $25,000 may also be imposed, and probation is not an option for Class X felony convictions.
Federal statutes may also come into play for cases involving large quantities of drugs or trafficking operations. Federal law under 21 U.S.C. § 841 imposes even harsher penalties, with mandatory minimums starting at 10 years and life imprisonment for significant quantities.
How Drug Charges Are Investigated and Prosecuted in DuPage County
Drug cases in DuPage County typically begin with law enforcement investigations. Police may conduct surveillance, use informants, or employ undercover operations to gather evidence. In cases involving places of worship, the heightened sensitivity of these locations often leads to aggressive policing and stricter scrutiny.
After evidence is gathered, arrests are made, and charges are filed. The process then moves through several stages, including arraignment, pre-trial motions, discovery, and trial. Each phase provides opportunities for a skilled attorney to challenge the evidence, question procedural issues, and negotiate with prosecutors.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Conviction
A conviction for delivering controlled substances near a place of worship has far-reaching implications. Beyond incarceration and fines, individuals face long-term consequences, including:
- A permanent criminal record that may affect employment opportunities.
- Loss of eligibility for professional licenses in fields such as healthcare or education.
- Denial of federal financial aid for students.
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens, including deportation or inadmissibility.
- The stigma of having a drug-related conviction, particularly one tied to a place of worship.
These life-altering penalties underscore the need for a robust defense to avoid or mitigate the consequences of a conviction.
Building a Defense Against Drug Delivery Charges
An effective defense begins with a detailed analysis of the prosecution’s case. Common defense strategies include:
- Challenging the evidence: Evidence must be lawfully obtained and properly handled. Any breach in protocol can result in evidence being excluded.
- Disputing the location: Prosecutors must prove that the alleged offense occurred within 1,000 feet of a place of worship.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement pressured the defendant into committing the crime, entrapment may serve as a valid defense.
- Lack of knowledge: The defense may argue that the accused was unaware of the drugs’ presence or intended use.
At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we tailor our strategies to the unique circumstances of each case, ensuring every defense angle is thoroughly explored.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been charged with a drug crime in Illinois, don’t wait to secure legal representation. We provide personalized attention, aggressive defense strategies, and a commitment to achieving the best possible results. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance through every step of the legal process.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides aggressive legal representation for those accused of a drug crime in DuPage County and throughout Illinois. We offer free consultations 24/7 to discuss your case and legal options. Contact us today at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442 for dedicated defense in DuPage County, Cook County, Will County, Lake County, and the greater Chicago area.