Former University of Florida Player’s Drug Charge Arrest Warrant is Dropped
On March 19, former University of Florida cornerback Loucheiz Purifoy was arrested by the Alachua County police department and charged with the possession of marijuana and synthetic drug bath salts. Information regarding the amounts in his possession has not been released. Purifoy, reportedly a prospect for the National Football League, is currently forgoing his senior season to enter the NFL draft.
A warrant for Purifoy’s arrest was issued on April 4. However, it was dropped after he agreed to cooperate with the Gainesville Alachua County Drug Task Force as an informant. The court officially granted his defense attorney’s request for the warrant to be dropped on April 17.
If convicted under Florida’s drug possession laws, Purifoy could have faced a range of penalties:
- Marijuana possession is characterized as a misdemeanor criminal offense, carrying a potential $1,000 fine and one-year jail sentence.
- Possession of other controlled substances may be classified as a felony charge, with a potential $5,000 fine and maximum five years incarceration.
Florida’s drug laws are some of the most stringent in the United States and, as a result, drug law enforcement in the state has been characterized as tough and aggressive. Even though they are nonviolent offenders, those charged with drug possession may face serious consequences, including time spent in jail or prison. If you are convicted of drug possession, your life may be seriously disrupted and your future jeopardized.
If you need legal assistance after an arrest for a drug crime in Florida, consult a skilled criminal defense attorney right away.
