Traffic stops are often a gateway for Louisiana law enforcement officers to conduct a limited investigation into whether a person has committed or is committing a crime. Something as simple as a broken tail light could quickly turn into an arrest on serious charges. In fact, two men now face drug charges due to a search conducted during a traffic stop.
One of the two arrested, a 20-year-old woman, was pulled over by police for a variety of traffic offenses, including improper lane usage. Somehow, police suspected that the driver had drugs in the vehicle. A search supposedly led to the discovery of Promethazine syrup as well as thousands of pills suspected to be ecstasy and a considerable amount of cash.
Subsequently, a search warrant was obtained for a home allegedly connected to the woman and a 36-year-old man who said he did not reside at the residence. Police say they found personal items that indicate he did live there. During the search of the home, officials found thousands of dollars in cash, at least four pounds of a substance believed to be crystal meth, other drugs, and a gun. Each individual now faces numerous drug charges in the aftermath of the traffic stop.
The potential penalties for the drug charges they face are severe. As would be the case for anyone in their position, it would be a good idea to gain an understanding of their rights and discuss defense options with a Louisiana criminal defense attorney. The beginning of their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrests will more than likely begin with that fateful traffic stop since that kicked off all of the events that followed.
Source: ksla.com, “2 arrested after discovery of nearly $250,000 in drugs“, March 10, 2018