Drivers in Connecticut should know that law enforcement officials cannot simply pull them over and randomly search their vehicles without just cause. This cause to stop a motorist might take many forms such as the violation of a traffic law like speeding or failing to yield the right of way to a pedestrian. Once stopped, there must be further cause established before a person’s vehicle may be searched.
One man from Bridgeport experienced this alleged sequence of events in Westport recently. Reports indicate that a Westport police officer witnessed the man driving in a slow manner that seemed a bit unusual and therefore suspicious. Additionally, it is said that he did not come to a full stop at an intersection with a flashing red light. For these reasons, the man was pulled over by the officer.
Once stopped, the officer reported that pot was visible and that was sufficient to warrant a search of the man’s vehicle. A large sum of cash was discovered along with marijuana, heroin and esctasy. He has now been jailed on a $15,000 bond. His charges include possession of drugs with the intent to sell and possession of controlled substances.
Situations like these may feel dire to people in Connecticut who are arrested. However, they might find it helpful to talk with an experienced criminal defense attorney. This may offer them insight into their options for a defense at a time when they could believe they have no options.
Source: CT Post, “Police: Lackadaisical driving leads to drug bust,” Cedar Attanasio, March 1, 2017