Few would argue that the recent increase in heroin addiction and overdoses is alarming. Law enforcement agencies in North Carolina make a commendable effort to rid the streets of drugs that threaten the lives of many. However, despite the desperation of the drug epidemic across the country, police must still perform their duties within the confines of the law. These laws protect those suspected of involvement in the drug trade from illegal search and seizure.
The U.S. Constitution forbids police from entering the private home of a citizen without a valid warrant. Similarly, unless a person grants permission, officers may not search his or her car or body without a warrant. Search warrants are granted by judges who are convinced that probable cause exists, allowing police and investigators to enter a private home and look for specific evidence of illegal activity.
For example, investigators from five different agencies, including the FBI, recently executed search warrants that led to serious charges being filed against a 56-year-old man. Allegedly, the man was found in possession of several ounces of heroin powder and 3,400 individual packets of heroin. He also was said to be carrying a handgun despite being a convicted felon.
The man is now facing numerous drug and weapons charges which may result in years in prison if he is convicted. In cases like this, the admission of the evidence against the accused depends on the validity of the search warrant and the care with which investigators followed protocol for search and seizure. For those facing such charges, a North Carolina criminal defense attorney will likely focus on those factors in preparing a defense.
Source: portcitydailycom, "Heroin trafficking investigation uncovers guns, processing equipment and $34,000 in drugs", Cory Mannion, Aug. 14, 2017
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