Three individuals were arrested after a traffic stop in Florida allegedly led to the discovery of illegal drugs. The drugs were claimed to have been hidden inside of the rental car. Florida troopers reported finding a drug commonly known as Molly, high-grade marijuana, and ecstasy pills. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that the total weight of the drugs was 94 grams.
The trooper claimed to have been able to smell raw marijuana as he approached the rental car. The driver of the rental car supposedly told the trooper that his driver’s license had expired. At that point the trooper reportedly detained the individuals in the car and then proceeded to search the vehicle.
All three individuals were charged with amphetamine possession with the intent to distribute, trafficking of amphetamines in excess of 14 grams, and the smuggling of amphetamines into Florida. The driver of the vehicle was charged with driving with a suspended license, possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
We have not been provided enough information to determine whether these charges would hold up in the court of law. Every drug crime is fact specific and whether anyone is convicted of a crime often depends upon the believability of evidence presented against them.
However, the burden of proof is upon prosecuting attorneys and arresting officers. Criminal defense attorneys have the right to question all evidence and make inquiries as to whether an arrest was conducted properly. For example, arresting officers do require probable cause to pull suspects over. There are also a series of strict criteria that must be followed before a car can be searched without a warrant.
Source: The Gainesville Sun, “I-75 traffic stop reveals hidden drugs, results in 3 arrests,” Sean P. McCrory, Oct. 1, 2013
Andrew Moses
Andrew has been practicing criminal law his entire career. After graduating from law school he began working as an Assistant State Attorney prosecuting cases in Orange and Osceola Counties. During his time as an Assistant State Attorney, Andrew handled all types of cases ranging from misdemeanors to such serious felonies as drug trafficking and armed robbery. His experience as a prosecutor helped him gain perspective of the criminal justice system and how the government established its cases.
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