An article in the Los Angeles Times describes the arrest and charging of rapper and actor ‘Coolio’ with battery and possession of cocaine after a run-in at the Los Angeles International Airport. The well known entertainer allegedly grabbed a screener’s arm to prevent the search of his luggage, which allegedly uncovered rock cocaine.

Coolio’s real name, Artis Leon Ivey, 45, was charged with one felony count of possession of cocaine, one misdemeanor count of battery, and one misdemeanor count of possession of a smoking device. He was released on bail after being taken to the Los Angeles police Department’s jail in Van Nuys, and could face up to three years in state prison.

In California, possession of drugs (or drug paraphernalia) can be a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the amount and type of drugs you may possess. In fact, possession of a small amount of marijuana may be handled differently in different cities and counties.

Possessing large amounts of drugs, or cultivating or selling drugs, is more likely to be a felony with serious penalties attached. Like so many criminal charges, it is of the utmost importance that you hire a local, experienced Los Angeles drug crime defense attorney in Los Angeles that knows the local courts and judges.

The law offices of Wallin & Klarich provide legal services throughout California with over 30 offices in Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Los Angeles and Ventura, and know the legal system. If you would like to set up an appointment with one of their attorneys, just call 1-888-280-6839, or visit their website, www.wklaw.com for more information.