Judge Dismisses Drug Charges On Double Jeopardy Grounds

By Brian Cole

Published on March 02, 2006

U.S. District Judge John Fullam originally dismissed the indictment on July, 19, 2005 when Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Stephens cross-examined Williams about his previous drug convictions; something he had been barred from doing. Stephens argued that his questioning of Williams was in compliance with the federal rules of evidence.

All of the charges against the Pottstown man, including possession with intent to distribute crack-cocaine, were dismissed. Williams was arrested as part of the Federal Safe Neighborhoods Program; a collaboration between the U.S. Attorney's office and Montgomery County Prosecutors. Williams was arrested for possession of 83 small bags of cocaine, totaling 20 grams.During a police interview, Williams admitted the crack-cocaine found in his home was his.

Williams' previous contact with law enforcement includes a guilty plea on a drug possession with intent to sell charge after he sold drugs to an informant.

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