While the ultimate goal of many criminal defense strategies is to see charges dismissed, that isn’t always possible. When evidence or situations make it impossible for all charges to be dismissed, it might be in a person’s best interest to negotiate with prosecutors through plea bargaining. A legal professional experienced in criminal defense can help you understand what the best path might be given the details of your case.
In a recent case in Newport News, a 24-year-old male pleaded guilty to racketeering charges. The man admitted to authorities that he was part of a regional gang. The gang he said he was involved in is called the Black P-Stones. Some refer to the gang as the Cobra Stones or P-Stone Bloods.
The man is now awaiting sentencing, which is expected to take place in March of 2016. According to reports, the gang in question is suspected of a number of illegal activities. The man who pleaded guilty is believed to have participated in a number of those activities, including drug trafficking, robbery and even murder.
The maximum life sentence for the charge the man pleaded guilty to is life in prison. While that seems like a stiff sentence someone would want to avoid at all costs, if the man went to trial, he might have been tried on all the other charges. A murder conviction could mean an even worse sentence for him.
When facing criminal charges, it can be daunting to decide what path you should take. Often, you might feel like you are between two terrible situations. Speaking with a legal professional can help you understand the true benefits or disadvantages of any path so you can make a more educated decision.
Source: 13 News, “Newport News gang member pleads guilty to racketeering,” Dec. 16, 2015