Fourth District Judge Says Confession Admissible
Last week Gareth Bozung had a hearing before Judge Claudia Laycock to determine whether or not his confession to police would be admitted into evidence at trial. Bozung’s defense attorney’s wanted to suppress the confession because as they stated Bozung was so confused and unfocused that he could not have understood the Miranda warnings and thus the confessions were not admissible. Originally Judge Laycock ruled in favor of the defense stating that the prosecution could not use the confession but that ruling was later overturned by the Utah Supreme Court and sent back. Bozung is facing charges of possession, distribution, and obstruction of justice. Bozung allegedly sold heroin to Joshua Ruzicka in 2007, shortly before Ruzicka overdosed and died.
Utah Drug Laws
The judges ruling last week was a big hit for Bozung’s defense and he is now likely facing jail time. With the drug crimes of distribution and possession being separate offenses, the prosecution can charge an offender with multiple charges and increase the likelihood of conviction as well as increasing the possible penalty. Utah drug laws also allow for a drug free zone enhancement, meaning that if the crime took place within a certain distance of a school, church, daycare or other defined location, then the penalties are increased.
Utah Drug Crimes Attorney
It’s been four years since the offense in Bozung’s case mostly because the defense attorneys are fighting zealously for Bozung’s rights. Although some may consider Bozung not worthy of protection simply because he has been charged, here at Provo Criminal Defense we understand that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. The criminal justice system allows and requires that defendants zealously defend themselves. If you have been charged of a crime, such as a drug crime, call Provo Criminal Defense today to help you get the protection you need and deserve.
