After a two-year uncover investigation, several law enforcement agencies in Middle Tennessee have arrested eight people believed to be associated with a large drug trafficking organization. The drug bust took place on Monday in Nashville after police suspected the individuals of drug trafficking.

The investigation began in 2009. According to authorities, the suspected leader of the organization based in Nashville has been accused of arranging shipments of cocaine from California to the Middle Tennessee area. The man allegedly had a truck driver pick up the shipments and drop the cocaine off in Nashville each month. Once a new shipment arrived, the man arranged for several other individuals to pack, store and distribute the drugs. The organization allegedly distributed drugs in Nashville and in other surrounding cities. According to police, the man also arranged to store the cocaine in several houses in Middle Tennessee.

Officers busted the man's house in Nashville early Monday. The man and seven others were arrested. About 27 kilograms of cocaine were confiscated in the drug bust. Police estimate that the cocaine is worth at least $1 million. It is believed that the group shipped more than 50 kilograms of cocaine each month into the area.

Violating state or federal drug laws is a serious crime. Individuals who believe they are under investigation or accused of committing a crime should seek legal guidance from an experienced defense lawyer. Defending a drug charge may be difficult, but attorneys in Nashville understand how to build a strategic defense for each client. Defense attorneys in Tennessee are knowledgeable of the difference between state and federal drug charges, and they are experienced with defending numerous types of charges including: drug trafficking, smuggling, importation, manufacturing, racketeering, possession and distribution.

Sources

WSMV: "8 Arrested in Cocaine Trafficking Case," 1 Feb. 2011

News Channel 5: "Police Bust Drug Trafficking Ring In Nashville," 1 Feb. 2011