If police stop your vehicle, they may attempt to search your vehicle for drugs and other paraphernalia to bring into evidence later on. However, if the police search your vehicle illegally, any evidence they find may get thrown out, which can result in the dismissal of your drug charges. Three Virginia men are facing drug and gun charges after a routine traffic stop.
The police pulled the men over for driving 15 miles over the speed limit. During the stop, the police officer allegedly noticed the smell of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The officer then searched the vehicle and found hash oil, prescription pills, cocaine and marijuana as well as two illegal, concealed firearms. Officers also uncovered almost $5,000 in cash.
The driver was charged with speeding and possession of marijuana and was released on bond. The other two men were charged with possession of a firearm and other drug charges. They are in a local jail where they are being held without bond.
The Fourth Amendment protects U.S. citizens from illegal search and seizure by police. For example, motorists who were stopped for a minor traffic infraction from having their trunk searched by an officer. Searching a vehicle without probable cause or consent may constitute an illegal search and the resulting arrest may be deemed illegal. As a result, any evidence that is found can be kept out of the case. If your home or vehicle was searched illegally by police, your Fourth Amendment rights may have been violated. In such cases, you can talk to your attorney regarding your legal options.
Source: WTVR, “Guns, drugs, cash found in Richmond-bound car,” Feb. 27, 2017