Joint Venture in Massachusetts Drug Arrests

It is possible to be charged with a Massachusetts drug crime, like possession with the intent to distribute narcotics or trafficking in narcotics even if the police do not have any evidence of direct participation. The Commonwealth will proceed under a joint venture theory.

In many Massachusetts drug arrests, the police arrest a group of individuals and charge each member of the group with possession with the intent to distribute. In most cases the evidence as to each defendant is different.

The Commonwealth can charge each individual with violating the Massachusetts drug laws based on a joint venture theory. A joint venture theory is a theory of criminal liability that applies to almost any crime, but comes up often in drug cases. Under a joint venture theory, the Commonwealth will argue that a defendant:

• Was present at the scene of a crime;
• And aided in the commission of the crime.
• And had the intent that the crime would be carried out.

In some Massachusetts drug cases, a defendant will be charged with drug distribution based on a joint venture theory where the Commonwealth claims that the defendant served as a look out to facilitate a drug transaction or arranged a drug transaction.

If you are charged with a Massachusetts drug crime, call Attorney DelSignore immediately to explain your defenses, 508-455-4755 or 781-686-5924.