As patrons enjoyed a meal in a Vero Beach, Florida restaurant, they witnessed a woman outside the venue stumbling and exhibiting a general lack of coordination as she made her way to a van parked in a nearby lot. Law enforcement officers were contacted.
When a deputy sheriff arrived on the scene, he found that the van was parked awkwardly and the engine was running. However, the female driver was slumped over the steering wheel. The officer was able to awaken the women. The overwhelming odor of alcohol was present. As the deputy initiated a conversation with the vehicle’s passenger, the driver became verbally belligerent.
The deputy repeatedly attempted to calm the woman. Yet, she remained uncooperative and was eventually placed under arrest. Upon arrival at the Indian River County Jail, the female was searched and found to be in possession of a bag containing white powder. Testing revealed the powder was 0.08 grams of cocaine. Along with minor charges, the woman was now in need of an Indian River drug arrest attorney.
Complexity of Drug Cases
Sometimes, the situation is not so clear, cut and dried. It is not unusual for people to be apprehended by law enforcement when officers find individuals in a vehicle or a residence where drugs or drug paraphernalia is present. If substances had been found in the Florida woman’s vehicle, she would still need the assistance of an Indian River drug arrest attorney.
However, unbeknownst to many, an individual cannot be convicted of possession of drugs unless the state is able to show that the individual arrested was fully aware of the presence of the substance. The state must also prove that the individual had the ability to control the substance. Otherwise, there is insufficient evidence of guilt and the case should be dismissed.
Consult a Indian River Drug Arrest Attorney
Anyone finding themselves in a situation where they might be charged with possession of illegal substances should consult with a drug possession criminal lawyer who has experience in the field. Indian River criminal defense attorney Jeffrey H. Garland, P.A. has extensive experience defending clients involved in possession cases. In addition, he is experienced in dealing with various law enforcement tactics that may lead to arrests, which may include the use of confidential informants, search and seizure methods and wiretapping.
If you, a loved one or someone else you know becomes involved in an illegal drug situation, contact the law office of Jeffrey H. Garland P.A. at (772) 489-2200.