Boston Criminal Lawyer Blog
Richard “Pops” Picardi Sr, a 76-year-old Revere, Massachusetts resident, has pled not guilty to charges that include unlawful distribution of a Class B substance, selling cigarettes without state tax stamps, receiving stolen property, and violating drug laws in a school zone.
A person can be charged with violating drug laws in a school zone if the drug-related crime he or she is accused of committing took place within 100 feet of a playground or park or within 1000 feet of a school or school property. Because so many cities in Massachusetts are well populated, it is very hard for someone not to be within a school zone.
Picardi is accused of dealing prescription drugs from the office of the Square Cab Co. in Chelsea in exchange for cigarettes and money. The company is located within 1,000 feet of Clark Avenue School. His arraignment took place in Chelsea District Court, and he was ordered held on $10,000 bail.
Undercover cops bought OxyContin and other narcotics from Picardi several times in March. One buy involved three OxyContin tablets in exchange for eight packs of cigarettes and $40. He also is accused of selling cigarettes illegally.
Picardi had more than $11,000 on him last week when he was arrested. Law enforcement officers also found almost two full cartons of cigarettes, 74 Roxicet pills, 21 razor packs, and 5 unopened cologne bottles that may have been stolen.
One-legged 76-year-old busted in drug sting, The Boston Herald, April 15, 2008
Man, 76, held in drug case linked to Chelsea cab firm, Boston Globe, April 15, 2008
Related Web Resources:
Massachusetts Drug Fact Sheet, Friends of Narconon
The Drug Policy Forum of Massachusetts
Massachusetts has very strict anti-drug laws and penalties for drug possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking convictions. The best way to defend yourself against drug charges is to contact our Boston drug crimes law firm today for your free consultation.
Contact Altman & Altman LLP to schedule your free consultation with one of our Boston drug crimes lawyers today.
