What Happens If You Get Arrested For A Drug-Related Crime In Tijuana, Mexico?

 

Due to the heavy influx of drugs, the Mexican government has introduced tougher measures to deal with people smuggling drugs. As a result, unaware innocent people also end up going to jail for drug offenses. This happens because people don’t know about the strict drug regulations in Tijuana, Mexico. 

These people bring their recreational cannabis or prescription drugs across the border. However, at the customs, these people are arrested and tried in court for drug-related crimes. Here’s all you need to know about drug-related arrests in Mexico.

Arrests Related To Drug Crimes

Due to the legalization of certain drugs such as cannabis in neighboring countries like the US and Canada, the influx of drugs has increased at the Mexican border. As a result, more people are being arrested for drug-related crimes by customs. Most of these people are unaware of the Mexican laws and bring recreational cannabis with them.

However, unlike in the US, recreational drugs are prohibited in Mexico. Unless you’re bringing it for medical reasons, you won’t be allowed to go through the border. But even then, the amount you bring should not be more than that required for your stay. Otherwise, you’ll be arrested and put in jail until your trial.

Penalties Related To Drug Crimes

In Mexico, a drug-related conviction is serious regardless of the amount in possession. Even a small amount can result in misdemeanor charges on your record. But the penalties for larger quantities are much more severe. In addition to heavy fines, you can end up in jail for up to 25 years. You need a prescription from a licensed Mexican physician to bring prescription medication. But it has to be authentic.

Many doctors in Mexico have been arrested for giving fake prescriptions. As a US citizen, you might have to spend months in Mexico's jails before the judicial system makes a decision regarding your case's procedures. Even after your release, you can have a permanent record that'll prevent you from getting good jobs, housing loans, and advancing your career. As a result, your professional and personal life may also suffer extensively.

 

Bail For Drug Crimes

You can end up with pre-trial detention for serious offenses such as firearm possession, organized crime, and drug-related crimes. Since drug possession is considered a federal crime, getting bail is impossible, no matter how much you’re willing to pay. Your best course of action is to get a criminal defense lawyer or a firm such as Meneses legal so they can investigate the case and gather evidence.

Generally, upon arrest, the police would take you to the Ministerio Publico to determine the intensity of your offense. Within 48 hours, you’ll find out whether or not your case is considered severe. Once that happens, a court date will be set, and you’ll have to appear to present and defend your case.

Court Trial For Drug-Related Crimes

Before your appearance before the judge, your passport may be retained to prevent you from leaving the country. Any assets you may have might be frozen, and you can be prohibited from leaving the country. After the arrest, a preliminary hearing is held to determine the severity of the case. If the case is severe, a court trial is required.

The judge will ensure that you’re informed of your rights, and you’ll be allowed a proper legal counsel. It’s up to you to determine whether you want a public defender or a private lawyer. Additionally, the judge will also determine a deadline to close the investigation. Usually, for serious cases, it’s up to 6 months.

Hire A Bilingual Criminal Defense Lawyer With Meneses Legal

Meneses Legal is a law firm founded by Fabian Meneses, a bilingual criminal defense lawyer. The firm helps clients with cross-border crimes such as drug-related crimes, firearm violations, and other criminal charges. The law firm has a combined experience of 40 years and has helped many clients. Give them a call and book your consultation with a criminal defense lawyer today!