In Florida, authorities continue to arrest a significant number of people each year for drug-related offenses. The charges include minor misdemeanors, serious felonies and everything in between. The recent search of a suspected drug trafficker’s vehicle led to several felony charges being issued.
The suspect did not appear in court as scheduled, so the judge issued a warrant for failing to appear. The charges related to the initial court appearance centered on felony fleeing and eluding.
The suspect was driving a rented vehicle in the Tallahassee area and was spotted by police. After a short chase, the officers pulled over the vehicle and arrested the suspect. Soon after, the officers performed a vehicle search, which uncovered more than 30 pounds of marijuana and a firearm. The suspect already had a felony conviction, which led to corresponding firearms charges.
After seizing the evidence from the vehicle, officers procured a warrant to search the suspect’s home. At the residence, the subsequent search led to the discovery of another drug and more marijuana.
The incident eventually led to multiple charges being levied against the defendant. The various felony charges could lead to a lengthy prison term. One of the charges is possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This is a felony of the second degree in Florida, which carries significant potential prison time.
When dealing with drug charges, an attorney could look at the evidence related to a case and determine a potentially feasible defense strategy. A lawyer might also look at the warrant to see if it was properly obtained as well as advise his or her client about possible plea bargain deals. If his or her client is convicted, a lawyer could petition the court for reasonable sentencing.