Several individuals are now facing serious federal firearms and drug charges in connection with a recent sting operation. “Operation Taste the Rainbow” netted 15 arrests on September 8, 2021, but has named 40 defendants. Those charged are allegedly linked to a methamphetamine trafficking operation in the Lubbock area.
The FBI’s Dallas Field Divisions, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and state and local law enforcement agencies mobilized for the massive bust. The multi-agency operation was a year-long work in progress. Its ultimate goal was to get some of the city’s most violent offenders off the streets of Lubbock and surrounding communities. Almost 200 law enforcement personal executed the recent operation, which resulted in the 15 arrests. Federal agents also served warrants to 20 additional individuals associated with the trafficking operation who were already in custody and serving time. Five other individuals have been linked to the Lubbock operation and are currently on the run. They are now considered fugitives.
Those facing criminal offenses have been predominantly charged with the distribution of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of firearms, and conspiracy. Unlawful possession of a firearm is generally a third-degree felony in Texas and can carry a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. In some instances, though, unlawful possession of a firearm is a Class A Misdemeanor, with penalties of up to a year of prison time and fines of up to $4000.
The potential penalties for the distribution of methamphetamine depend on the amount law enforcement recovered from the bust. If large quantities of the drug are found, prison time can be from ten up to 99 years. If found guilty, individuals may face steep fines as well.
According to local news reports and the FBI, many of the 40 individuals implicated in Operation Taste the Rainbow also have previous criminal records. Their alleged crimes include 69 controlled substance violations, 32 cases of assault, 24 firearm crimes, 12 cases of fraud, nine burglaries, three robberies, three terroristic threats, child sexual assault, and murder.
Federal firearm and drug cases are extremely serious and can carry heavy prison sentences. Those charged with these types of crimes can face a tough road ahead. Prosecutors can be aggressive when handling federal cases. Defendants need an equally aggressive attorney on their side to protect their rights and fight back.
If you or a family member are facing serious firearms or drug charges, you need to move quickly to protect yourself. The experienced defense attorneys of Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian are ready to jump into action for you. We can investigate the circumstances of your arrest and begin mounting an effective defense strategy. We have the knowledge base and the resources to handle both drug cases and federal firearm cases in addition to other criminal charges.
Exercise your rights. Ask for an attorney and call the experienced Collin Country team at Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian for help. Reach out by calling (972) 369-0577 or contact us online to speak with a defense attorney today. We want to give you the best chance possible at obtaining a favorable outcome for your case.