When an individual is suspected of a crime, police officers will have a warrant issued. This will allow them to search that individual’s person, vehicle or home. Furthermore, this step could result in the arrest of the suspect if certain evidence is uncovered. If drugs are found on them or inside a vehicle or home, they could receive a charge for drug possession. Drug charges often mean serious penalties, so it is important to understand the situation so they could make a defense strategy.
The Washington County Drug Task Force recently served a St. George woman with a search warrant. This resulted in her arrest and a charge for drug possession. According to preliminary reports, the 28-year-old woman was served a warrant to search her vehicle in the Smith’s parking lot in St. George. The search uncovered heroin, methamphetamine, Alprazolam and various items of drug paraphernalia.
After locating these items and substances during the course of the search, officers arrested the woman and charged her for felony drug possession. This could result in harsh penalties such as fines and jail time. Depending on her criminal background, the woman could use that to lessen the charges against her.
When devising a defense strategy against drug charges, the defendant should be aware of their rights when it comes to searches and seizures. If officers failed to comply with the rules and standards, this could result in inadmissible evidence. Furthermore, charges could be reduced or dropped.
All defendants are entitled to a strong defense. Conducting an independent search could help locate evidence to help them reduce the consequences they would have to face if convicted. Moreover, this step could alleviate them of any criminal charges or penalties. Seeking guidance about defense options could help them successfully defend themselves against the pending charges.
Source: St. George News, “Task force busts woman at Smith’s for felony drug possession,” Kimberly Scott, June 26, 2014