In 2023, Oklahoma Attorney General Genter Drummond established the first Organized Crime Task Force in the state to crack down on crime. As the office has expanded, so have the goals of this task force. It is imperative to understand the primary objective of this task force, as well as what you should do if you are contacted or arrested in connection with an organized crime. The following blog explores what you should know about these complicated matters, as well as the importance of working with an Oklahoma City felony defense lawyer to guide you through these difficult times.
What Is the Goal of the Oklahoma Organized Crime Task Force?
As the name suggests, the Oklahoma Organized Crime Task Force is a unit established by the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General as a way to combat organized crime in the state. In general, this is mainly relegated to illegal marijuana growing operations but is also used to target human trafficking and underground casinos, among other forms of organized crime.
While the operation started as a way to combat illegal marijuana businesses believed to be linked to an increase in fentanyl entering the state, the Office has recently turned its attention to combating organized retail crime. By establishing a small, specialized task force, the office is seeking to increase the penalties for offenders while also making the laws surrounding retail theft clearer. In fact, the office is even pushing to create federal laws to combat this issue.
What Should I Do if I am Contacted or Arrested by the OCTF?
If you are contacted by the Oklahoma Organized Crime Task Force, it’s critical to take a number of steps to protect yourself. One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself if you are brought in for questioning or placed under arrest in connection with organized illegal activity is to remain silent. Unfortunately, many are unaware of this right and say something to law enforcement that can be used against them. As such, if you are contacted by this task force, the most important thing you should do is invoke your Fifth Amendment right to silence and request to speak with an experienced attorney.
Working with an attorney in these matters is critical. Not only can an experienced lawyer help you fight for the best possible outcome in these difficult matters, but they can also help ensure your rights are protected during your interactions with law enforcement.
At the Jones Firm, PLLC, we understand that being accused of organized crime can be overwhelming. That is why our team is committed to helping you right for the best possible outcome during these matters. We understand that navigating these issues can be confusing, and accidentally saying or doing the wrong thing can result in a conviction. However, our team is ready to guide you through this process so you can fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
