On July 22 of this year, a raid of a home in Washington County, Pennsylvania, resulted in the discovery of a large-scale drug manufacturing lab. Drew Divelbliss, 36, and Lauren Divelbliss, 40, were arrested accordingly.

The two naturally face charges related to possession with the intent to deliver. However, their case is complicated by another factor: The couple's two children were also found living in the home. Thus, they also face charges for endangering the welfare of children.

If you're ever charged with either of these types of crimes in Pennsylvania, the LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team is on hand to protect your rights. Get started today by calling us at 888-535-3686 or submitting your information through our online contact form.

The Facts of the Case

According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry, the parents were arrested after agents raided their home and discovered:

• About 1,500 grams of the psychedelic substance DMT
• 300 grams of THC shatter
• “Hundreds” of packages of THC edibles
• Approximately 10 pounds of cannabis
• An unspecified quantity/volume of psilocybin mushrooms

The estimated value of the illegal narcotics found in the Eighty Four, Washington County, home was about $200,000. In addition, agents discovered $300,000 in cash in vacuum-sealed containers in the home.

Children Were Exposed to Dangerous Conditions

Drew and Lauren Divelbiss already stand to face potentially significant consequences for their drug charges. The penalties they'll ultimately face could be greater than they might otherwise be due to the fact that two children were allegedly living with them.

Children allegedly living in an environment where drugs are being manufactured and stored in large quantities theoretically have access to dangerous chemicals. Large-scale drug manufacturers may also be the targets of violent criminals seeking to rob them. As such, children are also in danger of being the victims of violence when their homes double as drug-manufacturing sites.

In some cases, endangering the welfare of children is a misdemeanor in Pennsylvania. However, these parents were both charged with two felony counts of endangering the welfare of children.

Endangering the welfare of children can become a felony in Pennsylvania if, for example, the alleged conduct of someone charged with this crime creates a significant “risk of death or serious bodily injury.”

That's just one factor that can affect the grading of this crime. Another factor is a child's age. If an allegedly endangered child is under the age of six, the grading of the charge increases by a single grade. So, for instance, a misdemeanor of the first degree could become a felony of the third degree if a child under six was allegedly at risk.

You Need a Lawyer When Facing Drug or Child Endangerment Charges

The penalties you may face if you're charged with a drug crime or a child endangerment crime in Pennsylvania can range from fines to prison time. A conviction can follow you throughout life, affecting everything from your employment options to child custody arrangements.

Protecting yourself in these circumstances is essential. If you've been charged with a drug crime, endangerment of the welfare of children, or similar crimes, contact the LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team to ensure you have a proper defense. Learn more by contacting us through our online form or by calling us at 888-535-3686.