Recent Blog Posts

Agents Crack Down on Online Drug Trade

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Thu, 10 May 2012 03:35:00 GMT

News sources have confirmed that drug sales don't just happen on street corners anymore as an online illegal drugs marketplace was discovered years ago. Federal authorities from several countries have been working together to find the people running the website. So far, arrests have been made in three continents. The sale of drugs is believed to have affected every state in America as well as 33 other countries worldwide. Referred to as the "Farmer's Market," its operators are believed to have made over $1 million in sales by offering products like high-end marijuana, LSD and ecstasy.

The marketplace remained open for so long thanks to the way the website was run. A third-party network allowed encryption on both ends, protecting both buyers and sellers of narcotics. One of the operators is a Dutch national who was arrested in his home country earlier this month. Another man, an American, had been living in Argentina, but was arrested in Colombia shortly after on multiple drug crime charges for his involvement. If you are hoping to fight your drug crime charges, take the time to contact Schwartz & Naderi to enlist the help and aggressive representation of a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer from our firm.

TSA Screener Arrested for Role in Drug Crimes

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Wed, 02 May 2012 00:15:00 GMT

Reports indicate that a TSA airport screener was taken into custody last week in Los Angeles, California. Thanks to several weeks of investigation by the local authorities, a drug investigation had a significant turning point. Earlier this year a drug shipment was diverted off course, which led the Los Angeles Police Department to investigate the package further. The investigation yielded information that airport drug screeners had been allowing packages of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana to go through the screening process. These screeners would accept bribes beforehand and be notified of the packages and their contents shortly before the drug courier would arrive at the airport.

While just one screener has been arrested at this time, the authorities are expecting more arrests to take place in the upcoming weeks. These screeners are believed to have accepted bribes averaging $2,400 per shipment, a large amount for some screeners who make under $45,000 yearly. This is not the first time that TSA screeners have been in the news this year. Several screeners in another city were caught stealing from passengers' baggage and were later arrested. Are you facing drug crime charges in L.A.? If so, contact Schwartz & Naderi today to get immediate legal help from a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney!

Michael Madsen Arrested for Domestic Violence

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 02:35:00 GMT

A movie star known for his roles in violent films was arrested last week for fighting with his son. Michael Madsen, who appeared in Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, was taken into custody by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department after allegations of domestic violence surfaced against him. Deputies were called to his home in Malibu, California for a possible family disturbance. When they arrived at the scene, they found the actor to be drunk and acting violently towards his own son. Although his son received a few scrapes and bruises, he was not injured seriously enough to warrant a visit to the hospital.

The actor was taken into police custody on a felony charge of child endangerment with cruelty. He was released shortly after on $100,000 bond. Officers later learned that the actor became enraged when he found his son smoking pot. When the son refused to give the pot to his father, Madsen allegedly became angry and started lashing out violently. Have you been placed under arrest for a violent crime? If so, don't wait to contact Schwartz & Naderi so you can arrange a case evaluation with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney from our firm. Once contacted, we will do all that we can to help you navigate through the legal system so you can fight the charges filed against you.

Los Angeles Criminal Law Special Earns High Honors

Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 17:00:00 GMT

A recent decision by the Los Angeles County Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section, has named Attorney Robert Schwartz the LA County criminal defense attorney of the year for 2012. This award, which is given to one attorney who exhibits exceptional trial experience and ability, courtesy to witnesses and opposing counsel, legal ability, understanding and knowledge of the law, and a dedication to the principles of the legal profession, is set to be handed to Attorney Robert Schwartz at a dinner next month in May. In addition to having these qualities, which every defense attorney strives for, he has proven that he is an active member of the legal community who is whole-heartedly dedicated to criminal law.

Board Certified by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization in the area of Criminal Law, Attorney Robert Schwartz has over 30 years of experience, has earned a prestigious AV® rating by Martindale-Hubbell®, a peer review organization in the legal community, and has achieved the high honor of being named a three-time Super Lawyer. He was chosen to receive this particular award from the LA County bar through a nomination and meticulous review process that evaluates the overall legal ability, dedication, and talent of this attorney.

Practicing in the area of criminal defense, Attorney Robert Schwartz works with clients facing criminal charges at any level, state or federal. He assists in the defense of misdemeanor and felony offenses, including DUI, drug crimes, probation violation, violent offenses, theft, and three strikes offenses. If you have been charged with a crime and need the experience of a criminal law specialist, look no further than Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer Robert Schwartz. For a review of your case and to find out how this firm will be able to help you, contact Schwartz & Naderi right away!

Convicted Terrorist's Sentence Questioned

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 GMT

After a federal judge gave a convicted terrorist just 22 years behind bars, the case was appealed and brought before the State Supreme Court. The court agreed and ordered the lower court to reconsider the prison term length for A.R., an Al Queda-trained terrorist. The case of A.R. is not a new one. He has been behind bars for almost a decade after being caught by American border patrol agents as he crossed the border into Washington. At that time, the Algerian terrorist was found to have explosives in his vehicle. Upon interrogation, police learned that A.R. was bringing the explosives into America with the specific intent of bombing an airport in the state of California.

Although the convicted terrorist did work with the counter-terrorism agents to provide information about people he was associated with, there have been many parties that want his prison term extended. The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that his prison term should be closer to 65 years and at this time, the case is ongoing. People who are facing federal crime charges need to speak with a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer about their options as soon as possible if they plan to contest the counts filed. To receive help as you challenge your criminal charges, contact Schwartz & Naderi today!

Two Arrested for Defrauding Lionsgate

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:20:00 GMT

News reports indicate that two men have been arrested for committing white collar crimes targeting a major movie studio. They have been charged on multiple counts for defrauding the company of over $3 million over the past several years. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, R.J.C., 31, and L.D.D., worked together to defraud Lionsgate Entertainment of millions of dollars. One of the men worked as a senior buyer for the company and he collaborated with the other to devise a successful kickback scheme. The buyer would purchase cardboard advertising which the other man would then reportedly use as a vendor.

The accounting department finally caught on that something was wrong last year. The federal government became involved in the case, working to gather evidence against the two men. This month they were arrested on charges of fraud and tax evasion. Some of the items purchased with the stolen money, including two luxury cars, were taken by the federal government as part of the investigation. If you have been the subject of a white collar investigation, do not wait to contact Schwartz & Naderi to hire an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer. Even though you stand accused of a non-violent offense, you could still face hefty legal penalties if you are found guilty.

Lindsey Lohan Receives Informal Probation

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 23:00:00 GMT

News sources have reported that a judge in California told Lindsay Lohan last week that she would be taken off probation. While she will be kept on informal probation, she will not have to report to her probation officer on a regular basis like before. The young actress first got into trouble in 2007 for driving under the influence (DUI). Instead of being sent to jail, she was given probation. However, she violated the terms of her parole several times, causing her to become a regular figure at the courthouse. A few years later she was accused of stealing a necklace from a jewelry store in Beverly Hills, California.

Lohan, now 25 years old, has finally been taken off probation. She will still be on informal probation for the diamond necklace incident, but she will be taken off morgue cleaning duty, have her travel restrictions lifted and will not have to visit her probation officer in the future. As long as she stays out of trouble, the judge stated, the informal probation will also be lifted in the future. Have you been accused of probation violation in California? Now is the time to get a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney involved by contacting Schwartz & Naderi as you may be facing jail time if your probation is revoked.

Man Found Guilty of Multiple Counts of Child Molestation

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:05:00 GMT

A Georgia man has been found guilty of three charges of child molestation and he will have to spend several years behind bars for his offenses. J.J.K., 41, was accused of child molestation back in 2010. Although the details of the incident are being kept somewhat secret, the victim is reported to be a relative of the J.J.K. Last week, the man went before a Cobb County judge and was found guilty of three counts of molestation, a serious sexual offense.

In addition to the charges in Cobb County, J.J.K. faces similar charges in two more counties. In Troup County alone he has been charged with seven counts of aggravated child molestation. His wife, W.K., has been indicted on one charge of second degree cruelty to children. It is uncertain whether she knew that the abuse was taking place. The suspect is a former master sergeant with the National Guard and has also worked as a teacher in Troup County say local reporters. If you're facing child molestation charges, know that a conviction may result in years of jail time. For this reason, you'll want to fight your charges by contacting Schwartz & Naderi to enlist the services of an experienced and aggressive Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.

Officer Arrested for DUI had BAC of .20%

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:20:00 GMT

In Los Angeles County, a sheriff's official was discovered drunk in her car. The suspect, N.S., is a civilian sheriff's director who works closely with police officers across the county. As such, she was easy to recognize when a local police officer discovered her vehicle parked in the middle of a freeway. When the arresting officer pulled up to the car, N.S. was passed out behind the wheel. N.S. was found to have a blood-alcohol level of .20 percent, well above the state legal limit of 0.08.

This is not the first time that she has been detained for DUI, however, as she already has one drunk driving conviction on her record. News sources say that N.S. was booked into a local jail and released a few hours later on bail. Even though you may think drunk driving is a minor offense, you'll want to enlist the help of a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney as a DUI conviction can lead to fines and even jail time. To get legal help throughout your case contact Schwartz & Naderi now.

Three Men Accused of Embezzling $900,000

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Three men have been taken into custody on multiple charges of white collar crimes. They are believed to have embezzled as much as $900,000 from a tribe in Del Norte County. The former Director of Forestry for the Yurok tribe, along with two contract biologists, were formally charged with embezzlement. When tribal officials first noticed that there were inconsistencies in invoices provided by the three men, an investigation into their activities revealed the true nature of their research.

Tribe officials discovered that the research the three were conducting on spotted owl surveys was false. The men kept charging the tribe for supplies such as gasoline and iPad purchases in order to conduct their research. Using his position as the minister of the forestry, R.R. was able to submit purchase orders to the tribe and reimburse his partners. The biologists involved have been charged with conspiracy, embezzlement, and burglary. Facing white collar crime charges? Arrange a consultation with a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer who can be of assistance by contacting Schwartz & Naderi today!

Officer Discovers 139 Gallons of PCP

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A narcotics task force in Los Angeles, California detained what is believed to be the largest quantity of PCP on record. Over 139 gallons of phencyclidine were discovered at the residence of two suspects. Los Angeles police officers worked with the Long Beach Police Department to conduct the investigation. After watching the two suspects for weeks, police caught a break in the case. The suspects – D.D.B., 55, and L.B.H., 31 – were arrested at a shipping store while attempting to mail the drugs. They are believed to be working as part of a larger drug shipment ring that spans the country.

One of the suspects is believed to be part of a street gang, which is how he got his start in the manufacturing of PCP. Upon arresting him and his partner, police discovered several locations where the drug was being made. In addition to an active lab at his own house, officers found ingredients for cooking PCP at two storage facilities. If you're facing drug crime charges in L.A. and want to fight the offenses, contact Schwartz & Naderi as soon as possible to get a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer involved in your case.

Founder of Popular Yogurt Establishment Arrested for Alleged Assault

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 23:10:00 GMT

A frozen yogurt chain store is receiving some unwanted press this month after its founder was arrested for assault. The suspect has since been released from jail but is expected back in court soon. According to the police report, 47-year-old Y.L. was driving in Los Angeles, California when a homeless man approached his vehicle. For some reason the man upset Y.L., who got out of his luxury car and started beating the transient with a tire iron. This was witnessed by his passenger as well as several motorists who called 911.

Although the suspect is being allowed to return home to his native Korea for a few weeks, he will need to surrender his passport when he returns in March. At that time he will have to enter a plea for the violent crime charges that he is facing. Y.L. has not commented on the incident but his attorney has answered for his client and asserts that no crime was committed. If you've been arrested for a violent offense, take the time consult a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer by contacting Schwartz & Naderi today. With our help, you can contest your charges and move forward with your life.

Sheriff Asks for Restraining Order to be Lifted in Domestic Violence Case

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:25:00 GMT

A sheriff in San Francisco, California was accused of domestic violence by his own wife last year and he will now have to answer for his actions this month in court. Until the matter is settled, however, Sheriff R.M. has been ordered to stay away from his wife and son. Earlier this month he requested that the restraining order be lifted so that he could spend time with his family. Just a few days ago a San Francisco judge denied his request and stated that the ban will remain in place until the matter has been formally settled.

On New Year's Eve 2011, his wife accused him of grabbing her arm violently and causing a bruise. The incident reportedly happened in front of their young son. Although his son is reportedly devastated to be away from his dad, the judge deemed it best to keep the parties separate for the time being. Charged with domestic violence? Even though in most cases domestic abuse is a misdemeanor, you'll still want to contact Schwartz & Naderi today to get immediate help and representation from a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney from our team.

Man Found Guilty in Murder for Hire Case

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:00:00 GMT

One man was so determined to slay his business partner that he ignored a warning from the FBI to stop his plans. Although he was never successful in actually killing his partner, he is now behind bars on charges of attempted murder. Last year the suspect, E.T., 51, tried twice to have his business partner killed. Both times he approached an undercover agent to conduct the murder. After the second time, the FBI learned about his plan and attempted to deter him from committing the violent crime.

E.T. was found guilty of three charges of murder-for-hire related counts by a California jury. He went before a judge this week to receive his sentence and was given six years in jail for attempting to kill his business partner. Although news source reported that he appeared surprised by the sentencing last week, E.T. made no apologies for his actions nor did he look at the intended victim who was present at the hearing. Being charged with a violent crime such as murder is no laughing matter. If you're facing this type of charge, contact Schwartz & Naderi immediately to enlist the services of a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.

23 Students Victimized by Teacher in California

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:10:00 GMT

Police and parents in Los Angeles County recently learned that one teacher was committing criminal offenses behind closed doors. Thanks to the vigilance of a lone photo processor, police were able to stop the teacher before the sex crimes went any further. The suspect, 61-year-old M.B., was arrested last week on charges of child molestation. An investigation into the 30-year-veteran of the school district began when a photo lab processor started noticing disturbing pictures being developed by M.B. This person alerted the police and showed them photos of children with their mouths taped shut and cockroaches on their faces.

After conducting a month long investigation, police were able to formally charge the suspect. M.B. is believed to have abused at least 23 male and female students between 2008 and 2010. Some of the photographs are of young girls show spoons being held up to their mouths. A milky liquid is being poured in. The children featured in the photos ranged in age from 6 to 10 years old. If you have been accused of committing a serious sex crime in L.A., take the time to contact Schwartz & Naderi today so you have your case reviewed by a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer from our team.