ERICK CRUZ GETS CAREER OFFENDER SENTENCE REDUCED FROM 12.5 YEARS TO 3 YEARS IN PRISON

By Erick Cruz December 20, 2016 Posted in News, Victories Share

A client charged as a career offender in federal court and facing a minimum of 12.5 years in prison had his sentence reduced to three years after Erick Cruz persuaded the judge to reduce his sentence.  The client pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute Molly.  Because of his extensive criminal history, the client qualified as a career offender that enhanced his sentence to a minimum of 12.5 years in prison.  

Prior to the sentencing hearing Erick drafted a sentencing memorandum discussing all of the points in mitigation of a reduced sentence.  Specifically, Erick identified his client's drug addiction, dysfunctional family upbringing and his renunciation of criminal activity as factors that the court should consider in reducing his sentence.  Additionally, Erick researched the career offender enhancement laws and used them to the advantage of his client.  At the sentencing hearing, Erick presented all of these circumstances and requested a three year sentence, a significant reduction from the minimum 12.5 years in prison called for by the sentencing guidelines.  After hearing the presentation and over the prosecutor's objection, the judge agreed with Erick that a 12.5 year prison sentence was excessive and sentenced his client to three years in prison.  

Additionally, the judge recommended that the client participate and complete the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP).  If the client successfully completes the RDAP program, he could see up to a year reduced from his three year sentence.

If you find yourself or a loved one under investigation and facing criminal prosecution call Erick Cruz.  The possibility of being arrested and convicted of a crime carries immediate as well as long-term consequences.  Put my experience as a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney to work for you to avoid the consequences and stigma of a criminal arrest or conviction.

At the Law Office of Erick Cruz we are dedicated to representing individuals under criminal investigation or who have been arrested and charged with a crime. Because our office’s exclusive practice focuses on criminal defense in Miami, Erick Cruz has established and maintains a positive working relationship with other defense attorneys, prosecutors and criminal court judges. The exclusive focus on criminal defense allows us to dedicate the time and resources necessary to represent you through a criminal investigation, criminal prosecution or post-conviction matters.