There are many tightly knit families across the nation. These families live near each other and share their lives together on a regular basis. However, both federal and state authorities claim that one Chicago family also shared a drug business together. Recent allegations claim that a total of 27 people, several of them family members, were involved in illegal drug sales and/or distribution, resulting in at least one drug charge.
Authorities indicate that the recent arrests of 27 people on state and federal charges were a result of an investigation that took place over the course of a year. During the arrests, they claim they confiscated drugs as well as at least one weapon. Most prominent among those arrests was a 47-year-old man who is claimed to be a prominent member of a gang that allegedly distributes drugs in the Chicago area.
In addition to this man, the police claim that several of his family members worked with him. As a result, his sister and son were also accused of helping to distribute illegal drugs. However, the investigation and possibly subsequent arrests were admittedly fueled by what authorities are describing as cooperators who are affiliated with the gang of which the man is allegedly a part.
As a result of the investigation, many people from the Chicago area face at least one drug charge and will be working to ensure that their rights are preserved throughout the criminal process. At this time, it is unclear what evidence authorities have against the accused other than the cooperation of those who admit to being affiliated with illegal drug and gang activities. Perhaps one of the most important rights guaranteed those who are accused of a crime is the presumption of innocence. Unless prosecutors provide sufficient evidence to prove the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the defendants must be found not guilty.
Source: Chicago Sun-Times, “27 charged in West Side drug market”, Becky Schlikerman, June 12, 2014