As criminal defense attorneys, we know that sometimes, police uncover crimes in all kinds of unusual circumstances. Recently in Ohio, police discovered evidence that led to the arrest of an alleged drug dealer after the man called 911 for assistance after he accidentally locked his keys in his car. Normally, this would be no big deal, as police often will assist a motorist by unlocking a door with a “slim jim” tool. This time, however, was different.
Immediately upon opening the door, the officers were greeted by the strong odor of cannabis (also known as marijuana, weed, pot, etc.) emanating from the passenger’s side of the car. At first, the man attempted to blame it on a cigar he had smoked earlier, but the officers weren’t buying that story. The man allegedly admitted that there were two bags of pot in the car. During the search, police uncovered a grinder, a scale, and boxes of sandwich bags with the brand name “Good Sense” (which was something the alleged dealer apparently did not have much of).
It’s Not Always That Simple
If the police had entered the man’s car without his permission, a good criminal defense lawyer would have filed a “motion to suppress evidence” based upon a lack of probable cause to search the car. But it is another thing entirely when a person invites the police into the place where his crime is being committed. In such a circumstance—in what appears to be the case here—a motion like that would not normally be successful.
The alleged dealer is now facing charges for trafficking in marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, and drug possession. The charges may be enhanced because the crime occurred in an area near children. As for the arresting officers, they could not fathom why the man had called for police assistance in the first place considering what was in his car, and it’s unlikely that the judge will understand either.
Possession of illegal drugs, distribution of drugs, and trafficking illegal drugs are all serious crimes that carry serious consequences. Anyone charged with any such offense, or any serious criminal offense for that matter, needs a knowledgeable lawyer to protect his or her rights, freedom, and good name. If this is you, or someone you know, then call us at Mitchell S. Sexner & Associates LLC. Our lawyers have years of experience defending these types of matters with results that speak for themselves. Call (312) 644-0444 today to schedule your confidential, no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our lawyers at either our Chicago or Arlington Heights locations.