New York Criminal Defense Blog

Last year, New York changed some of the most historically harsh drug sentencing laws in the country. Known as the Rockefeller drug laws, they were enacted during the tough on crime 1970s. However, tough on crime wasn’t necessarily effective, locking people up for lengthy sentences on non violent crimes. [Read More...]

It’s been about a year since major changes were made to the state’s laws regarding drugs. Once held under the strict Rockefeller laws, the state made a move towards rehabilitation and away from lengthy incarcerations for nonviolent drug offenders. So, one year later—what’s happened? [Read More...]

In a story that may not be surprising to many, the New York Times revealed this week that blacks in NYC are far more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than other racial groups despite the fact that white New Yorkers are more likely to be marijuana smokers. In addition, overall arrests for possession of pot are up under Mayor Bloomburg. [Read More...]

An undercover officer with the NYPD went on a shopping spree of sorts over the past several months, according to the Daily News, buying drugs and guns in an effort to take down a ring operating in very close proximity to a school. [Read More...]

A national trend is being noticed in Albany. Heroin usage is up as evident from numbers out of hospitals, treatment facilities, and District Attorneys offices. This cheap but potent drug is on the rise once again and police are taking note. [Read More...]

In two Bronx housing projects this week, local and federal law enforcement swept down to sweep up a major drug problem. Fifty three people have been indicted for various drug and weapons charges following the bust, and at least several gang members. [Read More...]