R. v. C.L.L.

(Calgary, P.C. - PPT/Proceeds of Crime).  CLL was charged alongside a co-accused with possession for the purpose of trafficking a kilogram of cocaine and proceeds of crime.  The investigation that precipitated the arrest of CLL started in a jurisdiction outside of Calgary, but led undercover operatives to the City. The investigation actually focussed on a number of big fish targets.  CLL's case was like so many other drug prosecutions where an innocent accused was in the presence of less innocent parties.  To prove PPT and proceeds the Crown needed to present sufficient to demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that CLL had knowledge, consent and control over the drugs and money. Leading up to the takedown CLL was completely unknown to police. CLL's background was also more consistent with legitimate activity than drug trafficking or handling large quantities of cash collected from a criminal venture. Ultimately, the Prosecution focussed on others and in light of the event, stayed the charges against CLL.  CLL's counsel made a couple of strategically important decisions, including having the case moved to the proper jurisdiction. In light of the change of venue, the prosecution would have been required to bring witnesses from outside Calgary to trial.  Defending a criminal case involves more than the straightforward application of legal principles. Good criminal defence lawyers think many moves ahead.  If you have been charged with a drug offence, the consequences can be severe. Commercial possessions for the purpose of trafficking can result in sentences in the range of 3-4 1/2 years in jail or more.  Looking down the barrel of such a significant jail sentence with serious long term consequences (i.e., travel to the United States), hiring the best criminal defence lawyer for your case is important. David Chow is a Calgary criminal lawyer with over two-decades of real trial experience.