When police officers are responding to a call or are issue a search warrant, it is likely that unexpected evidence and information is uncovered. This could result in multiple charges being filed and even additional suspects being charged. While evidence is collected, this does not always mean the evidence will remain. A search is not always conducted properly and evidence could be mishandled, which could allow for the accused to assert a criminal defense.
According to recent reports, three Virginia men, including a man wanted for felony assault, were arrested. During a response to a residence to assist detectives with a search for a man wanted on abduction, strangulation and assault charges, authorities discovered numerous controlled substances and firearms.
After the suspect was taken into custody, deputies that remained at the scene supposedly observed two males going between residences, noticing that a vehicle parked in the driveway was tinted to dark to be legal in the state of Virginia. The vehicle soon pulled out of the vehicle and stopped on a nearby street with its hazards on. Authorities asked the men to step out and a K9 dog alerted the presence of marijuana. Following a search, officers uncovered marijuana, nine bags of a white powdery substance, drug paraphernalia and a firearm.
The three men, including the initial suspect, were all charged with various drug crimes, such as possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm. Facing such charges could carry harsh penalties; however, defendants have the opportunity to defend themselves, possibly by questioning the search and seizure procedures.
Being arrested for a criminal allegation is a serious situation. An individual’s personal and professional life is at risk because a criminal charge could hold severe penalties, such as hefty fines and a prison sentence. As a means to reduce or prevent these from happening, defendants could assert a criminal defense strategy. This could help with the reduction of charges or even their dismissal.
