Recent Blog Posts

Two New Bills Proposed in South Carolina to Combat DUI

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 12 May 2012 18:20:00 GMT

Two bills being considered in the state of South Carolina have both stalled. Both pieces of legislation are tied to drunk driving laws that could seriously affect anyone arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). One of the bills states that all first-time convicted DUI offenders would be required to have an ignition interlocking device installed in their vehicles. This device requires drivers to blow into the machine to determine whether they are sober. Any readings over 0.2% will prevent the car from starting. There are several groups that are in support of this bill, such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the family of a little girl who lost her life last year.

The Longstreet family lost their 6-year-old daughter when a drunk driver ran into the family's minivan. Police quickly learned that the driver had a history of drunk driving and had just pleaded guilty to DUI nine months prior to the fatal collision. While the state already has similar laws in place for multiple offenders, new legislation would make it necessary for first-time offenders to submit to the interlock device before operating a motor vehicle. Are you facing DUI charges in North Carolina? Learn what legal options you may have throughout your case by contacting the Hopper Law Firm to consult an experienced Raleigh criminal defense attorney.

Elderly Woman Holds Shotgun on Three Wanted Thieves

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 05 May 2012 18:40:00 GMT

Police in Boone, North Carolina have an elderly woman to thank for capturing three wanted criminals. The robbers, a man and two women, made the mistake of going to the woman's house to hide out. Rather than help the suspects, however, she pulled a gun on them and waited for the police to arrive. The three robbers, along with one more female, were being chased by police when the driver lost control of their getaway vehicle. He crashed the car and exited it, along with two of the other suspects. They ran to the home of the elderly woman who had no idea that the three were robbers who were currently wanted by the police. However, sensing danger, she pulled a shotgun on them.

According to the police report, the 73-year-old woman was not intimidated by the suspects. She kept her shotgun trained on them until the police were able to arrive at her home and arrest the individuals. The robbers have since been charged with committing multiple crimes, including theft. If you're facing theft crime charges, it is important that you discuss your case with an experienced Raleigh criminal defense lawyer that can inform you of your rights. Contact the Hopper Law Firm today to set up your initial consultation!

71-Year-Old Woman Caught Selling Marijuana from Home

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 22:45:00 GMT

The illegal drug trade is kept alive by people around the country of all ages and demographics. This fact is proven true by a recent story in the news. An elderly woman was detained last week in Craig County after police discovered that she was selling marijuana out of her house. It took several months to investigate the illegal activity taking place at the home of 73-year-old D.M. Thanks to a tip received by the local police department, however, officers were given a starting point for their investigation.

Through surveillance and other investigative work, police were able to obtain a search warrant for her home. D.M., a retired employee of the Department of Human Services, stood by as police officers with Craig County and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics raided her farm. The officers uncovered enough evidence to bring D.M. into custody on multiple drug crime charges. Although officers knew that she played a vital role in the local drug trade, they expressed surprise at just how much marijuana she had inside her home. A total of six pounds was uncovered during the raid. If you have been arrested for a drug crime and you are hoping to fight your charges, contact the Hopper Law Firm now to enlist the immediate help of a knowledgeable Raleigh criminal defense attorney.

Teacher had Student Help Her Sell Prescription Drugs

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 17:58:00 GMT

A teacher in Gaston County faces multiple drug crime charges after she tried to sell prescription drugs at the school where she worked. To make matters worse, she enlisted the help of a student to distribute the narcotics. M.P., 31, worked as an English teacher in Gaston County. When school officials first received a tip about her suspicious behavior, they immediately contacted local police to investigate the possible drug offense.

Police discovered that the teacher had given one of her students four Clonezepam pills, which are a restricted drug, with the intent to sell them. The student was successful in selling the pills and gave the teacher a portion of the proceeds. By the end of the day, M.P. had been fired from her job. Records show that she had been working as a ninth grade English teacher at the same school for two years. She was taken into custody but later released on $15,000 bond. Have you been accused of committing a drug crime? If so, contact the Hopper Law Firm as soon as possible so you have an experienced Raleigh criminal defense lawyer on your side as you contest your charges.

Data Breach Reported by Two Credit Card Companies

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 18:10:00 GMT

Thousands of identities could be at stake as a result of a data security breach. Now, two major credit card companies are investigating whether the fissure could have led to the leaking of cardholders' personal information. The breach took place at an Atlanta company that processes payments for both Visa and Mastercard. One executive spoke recently about the compromise, stating his concern that an estimated 1 to 3 million cardholders could be affected. Although both credit card companies are eager to rectify the problem and notify cardholders, company executives say that they are having trouble getting cooperation from the processing company. It could take time before people are notified about the possibility of their own account being affected.

At this time, the theft is being taken very seriously by all parties involved. Neither credit card company wants the private information of their clients to be at risk. Until they have cooperation from the processing company, officials say, they will not know which cardholders' information has been compromised. People who have been accused of theft in North Carolina should obtain the services of a Raleigh criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible as there may be hefty penalties at stake. To get legal help so you can challenge your theft charges, contact the Hopper Law Firm now!

Physics Professor Detained for Drug Smuggling

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 03:55:00 GMT

A physics professor traveling in Argentina has been detained on suspicion of drug smuggling. Although he adamantly denies knowledge of the drugs found in his luggage, it seems as though the case against him is quite strong say news sources. According to the Argentinian government, 68-year-old P.F. was found to have 2 kilograms of cocaine that were in a secret compartment in his luggage. Airport security found the drugs in his bag while he was trying to return home to North Carolina. It is there that he teaches physics at the University of North Carolina.

The professor is currently being held at a local jail and has been visited twice by members of the U.S. Consulate. They are reportedly providing assistance to the British-born teacher. His ex-wife spoke with him about the incident, but told the media that while he declined to give her details, he proclaimed his innocence several times. Are you facing serious drug crime charges and afraid of the penalties that are involved? If so, ease your mind by letting a professional handle your legal matter on your behalf. Contact the Hopper Law Firm now to enlist the services of an experienced Raleigh criminal defense lawyer.

Elderly Woman Arrested for Motorcyclist's Death

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 17:56:00 GMT

An elderly woman is being held responsible for the death of a motorcyclist last week in the state of Florida. Several people say they saw the woman drift into oncoming traffic and directly into the path of the biker. According to the police report, 77-year-old B.D. struck C.B., 64, who was visiting Florida from North Carolina. He was riding with a group of motorcyclists, several of whom were able to swerve out of harm's way. When police arrived on the scene, they quickly determined that the driver was operating her vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

B.D. has since been charged with DWI with property damage, DWI and DWI manslaughter. She was taken to a Volusia County Jail. At this time, it is uncertain whether she has posted bail or not. Although the authorities will not be able to charge her until the results of her blood work are returned, the police department believes that they will press criminal charges for the death of the motorcyclist. Anytime people have been placed under arrest for drunk driving, they should obtain immediate representation from a Raleigh criminal defense lawyer that can help them challenge their charges. To enlist legal help during your DUI case, contact the Hopper Law Firm now!

Police Find 15 Pounds Of Marijuana During Routine Traffic Stop

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 03:35:00 GMT

A simple traffic violation foiled the plans of a would-be drug trafficker last week. The young man was pulled over for failing to use his signal but was detained drug crime charges instead. The police report shows that M.L.E., 33, was pulled over when a Columbia County officer witnessed a traffic infraction. As soon as the sheriff's deputy walked up to the SUV, he said the odor of marijuana was strong. A quick search of the vehicle revealed 15 pounds of marijuana, two illegal prescriptions and 8 ounces of an unknown purple liquid. The liquid was sent to a lab for further analysis.

M.L.E. now faces a variety of drug offenses, including a felony for possessing more than one ounce of marijuana. He was also charged with failure to signal while changing lanes. The suspect is currently being held at a jail facility without bond. Were you placed under arrest for a drug crime in the state of North Carolina? If so, know that even a simple possession charge can result in serious consequences if you are convicted. With this in mind, you'll want to hire a Raleigh criminal defense attorney who can help you contest your charges so you can avoid conviction. To get legal help throughout the duration of your case, contact the Hopper Law Firm today and set up your case evaluation with our team.

Former Baseball Player Gets 3 Years for Grand Theft Charges

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 22:05:00 GMT

A former baseball player was sentenced to three years in jail last week by a Los Angeles, California judge. Lenny Dykstra, 49, entered a plea of no contest for the multiple charges of grand auto theft that were filed against him. Dykstra, who used to play for the New York Mets, was charged with possessing a controlled substance, filing false statements and grand theft auto last year. He devised a scheme in which he used fake businesses to lease cars. As part of a deal with the prosecution, he pleaded no contest to three charges of grand theft auto along with one charge of filing a false financial statement. Since entering a plea of no contest is similar to pleading guilty under California law, the judge sentenced him to three years in jail.

Just last year, he went before a grand jury on different charges and was found guilty of destroying evidence during his bankruptcy case. Due to the fact that his earlier charges are categorized as federal crimes, he may be facing up to eighty years of jail time for his conviction – he is currently awaiting sentencing. If you have been accused of committing a theft crime, take the time to speak with a Raleigh criminal defense lawyer from our legal team by contacting the Hopper Law Firm as soon as possible. We will take the time to review your case and advise you of your legal options.

Base on Lockdown after Military Equipment is Stolen

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 04:45:00 GMT

After military equipment was reported stolen from a base in Washington State, the area was put on lock down. Although complete details of the story are not being released yet to the media, it appears as though police have one suspect in custody. Pvt. N.A.S., 22, was charged with theft earlier this month. He is believed to have stolen and sold at least $630,000 worth of sophisticated military equipment. The private was also charged with being in possession of steroids and drugs, as well as threatening to kill someone. He is currently being held at a military prison. If he is found guilty of all the charges against him, he could spend up to 59 years behind bars.

Since the theft involves sensitive military equipment, further details about the case are being kept a secret. The types of materials stolen and to who they were sold are not being discussed with the media. However, it is known that the military worked with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to recover 98% of the stolen materials. Are you being charged with theft? Whether a minor offense or major, it is important that you contact the Hopper Law Firm to enlist the services of an experienced Raleigh criminal defense attorney.

Serial Art Thief Caught in New York

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 03:46:00 GMT

A man that has stolen several paintings across the country has finally been apprehended. He will spend one to three years behind bars for the multiple thefts that garnered him national attention. M.L., 31, has worked as a wine steward throughout the United States. Wherever he worked, artwork would suddenly go missing. Law enforcement officials found that he was simply taking the pieces off the wall and decorating his own home with them. Among the paintings he stole were pieces from artists like Fernand Leger, worth $350,000, and a Picasso painting worth $275,000.

He was sentenced by a New York judge last week for the theft of multiple paintings. M.L. will spend up to three years behind bars for his crimes. However, he could be finished in as little as 6 months if he successfully completes a boot camp-like program. He has already served time in California for a similar theft crime. If you've been accused of theft, the first thing you should do is hire a Raleigh criminal defense attorney who can protect your best interests. To obtain legal representation, contact the Hopper Law Firm now.

Identity Theft on the Rise Around Tax Time

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:35:00 GMT

With April 17^th around the corner, the federal government has already seen an increase in fraudulent cases involving identity theft. There has already been a 50% increase since tax season started and it could rise even more before the final filing date. Nationally there are 35,000 identity theft fraud cases reported each week, according to U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman-Schultz. This figure has increased to 50,000 per week since the year began. While most of these cases involve identity theft, there is a large minority of wage-related or tax-related fraud cases also being reported.

The Internal Revenue Service reported 250,000 cases of identity theft that were confirmed last year. If your identity has recently been stolen, it will affect how you file your taxes. You will need to report the identity theft not only to local authorities, but to the IRS as well. Have you recently been accused of fraud or theft? If so, contact the Hopper Law Firm now to get immediate help and representation from an experienced Raleigh criminal defense attorney from our team. We can help you challenge your theft crime charges!

Man Pardoned for First DUI Commits Second DUI

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 18:20:00 GMT

News sources say that after a former governor signed a pardon for a man, the man wound up killing someone else. Even though the man was released from jail he still faces punishment for the second accident that he caused. The defendant, H.B., was behind bars for a felony DUI that occurred last year. He petitioned for a pardon from the former governor and was granted the request. However, the governor and the parole board were unaware that the suspect was involved in a second DUI accident that led to the death of 18-year-old C.S.

The officials that looked into the pardon request commented to the press that they did not know about the second accident at the time. If they had, they said H.B would not have been pardoned. Now, H.B. is likely to face criminal charges for the second DUI accident. At this time, neither H.B. nor the victim's parents are answering questions from the media. If you were arrested for DUI in North Carolina, it is important that you get a Raleigh criminal defense lawyer involved in your case. Don't wait to contact the Hopper Law Firm to enlist our legal help.

DUI Accident Leads to 15 Year Jail Sentence

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 04:00:00 GMT

This week, a 22-year-old was sentenced to 15 years behind bars for taking the life of an older man in North Carolina during a drunk driving accident. According to news sources, last August, B.O.R. was driving his truck intoxicated when he slammed into the back of a motorcycle attempting to make a right-hand turn. The impact trapped L.W., 51, to the bumper of the truck, dragging him 300 feet. He sustained life threatening injuries and was declared dead at the scene.

When officers spoke with B.O.R. immediately after the accident happened, it appeared that he was under the influence of alcohol. After admitting to police officers that he had had several drinks as well as marijuana, they took a blood-alcohol reading and found it to be 0.052. He now faces 15 years behind bars in a South Carolina prison for the DUI accident. The judge informed him that he must finish at least 12 years of his sentence before he can be considered for early release. Arrested for DUI in North Carolina? Take the time to consult a Raleigh criminal defense attorney by contacting the Hopper Law Firm as soon as possible. You can fight your DUI charges!

GPS in iPhone Leads Police to Four Theft Suspects

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Advances in technology have done so much more than make phones fun to play and interact with. For example, police in Pueblo used one phone's technology to not only locate it, but also to find four people involved in a string of local robberies. The owner of the stolen iPhone remembered that he could use certain software to locate the device. Once he figured out the actual location of his phone, he called police and told them his story. It took just a few hours for police to knock on the door of the apartment where the four suspects were living.

Once inside, police found over $5,000 worth of stolen property and ID cards. Following their search, police arrested the four individuals for a variety of theft crimes. At this time police, are not releasing the identity of the suspects involved in the case. However, it is known that three men and one woman were arrested and that they range in age from 20 to 30 years old. Were you recently accused of theft in Raleigh? If so, contact the Hopper Law Firm today to set up a time to discuss your charges and legal options with an aggressive Raleigh criminal defense attorney from our office.