A Lake Correctional Institution employee has been arrested for allegedly sneaking contraband to imprisoned inmates. An inmate caught with an illegal cell phone tattled that the defendant, 39 year old Julia Bedenbaugh regularly supplied prisoners with drugs and cell phones. Bedenbaugh is accused of having the contraband delivered to her personal post office box.
Clermont officials worked with the U.S. Postal Service to obtain surveillance video of the defendant obtaining her mail. She retrieved two packages from the post office box. The authorities obtained a search warrant and found one box contained a cell phone and the other possessed two plastic cigars containing crack cocaine.
Officers arrested Bedenbaugh and charged her with possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute. The defendant posted $20,000 bond and is currently awaiting trial out of jail. The Department of Corrections has terminated Bedenbaugh for her alleged actions.
Pursuant to Florida Statute 893.149, the crime of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute occurs when a defendant knowingly delivers an illegal chemical to another. This is considered a second degree felony and punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Bedenbaugh may also face additional federal charges for allegedly using the U.S. Postal Service to deliver to the drugs and contraband.
I understand the difficulty a suspect faces when accused of a crime. In the case of Bedenbaugh, she lost her employment and livelihood prior on the charges alone prior to a Court finding guilt. If you or a loved one faces a drug crime, contact a knowledgeable Florida criminal defense attorney for help. Experience does make a positive difference in the outcome of your case. Contact Musca Law for an in depth review of the charges against you.
