Created in 1912 as a blood clotting agent, MDMA has become common on college campuses. What a chemist in the 1950s touted for producing feelings of closeness and empathy can now bring drug charges for Ecstasy possession.

Police on Illinois college campuses have reported seeing more MDMA in two forms: Ecstasy and Molly. In the case of one bright young University of Illinois student, assault and possible drug charges may mean the end of a promising college track career. The freshman student allegedly attacked a resident assistant in the dorm bathrooms, and police were called.

The student acted strange and appeared to be on something. A Taser was used twice but had little effect, and a further struggle was required. After the student’s arrest, he was charged with aggravated assault. Drug charges might also be a possibility. The student was suspended from the track team.

Ecstasy and Marijuana

College students may bring along a small amount of “e” when going out with friends. It is common at after-hours dance parties, raves in underground spaces, and DJ shows.

While some may view Ecstasy along the same lines as marijuana, prosecutors will often aggressively prosecute these cases. Jail time and fines are usually on the table. Depending on the amount of Ecstasy, a more serious charge for sale and trafficking is possible.

Ruse Drug Checkpoint

A 2013 Illinois Appellate court case details some of the tactics that law enforcement will employ to find Ecstasy. A jury convicted Raymond Flores of unlawfully possessing more than 15 grams of MDMA. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison. He appealed and argued the police tactics were unlawful.

The Illinois State Police had put up signs on I-55 indicating that a drug enforcement checkpoint was ahead. There was actually no drug checkpoint, but the officers waited at a rest stop and watched for suspicious behavior. The vehicle Flores was riding in pulled into the rest stop. One officer believed the driver appeared nervous, so he approached the car and obtained consent for a canine drug sniff. After the dog was alerted, a search turned up a backpack with what turned out to be MDMA.

The appeal focused on the ineffective assistance of counsel. Unfortunately, the initial search and seizure issue had not been sufficiently addressed before the jury trial. The criminal procedure follows specific timelines and an argument that is not raised at the proper time may be waived. This demonstrates how important it is to seek counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney who can spot all available defenses.

A drug possession charge can affect your future educational, employment, and housing options. If charged with a crime, you need a strong defense. Contact an Illinois criminal defense attorney who will work to protect your rights and ensure you obtain the best possible outcome.