With the advent of online shopping, it is fairly common for packages to be delivered to residences on a regular basis. Apparently for some police in Missouri, a delivered package is cause to suspect that a crime is being committed. In fact, police conducted a search of a home after they claim to have witnessed marijuana being delivered. A father and son are now charged with possession of drugs as a result of the search.
Police saw that they observed a package containing 72 pounds of marijuana being delivered to a residence. Although it is unclear how police determined the contents of the package, they conducted a search of the home as a result. Officers claim that in addition to the original package, they discovered another 33 pounds of marijuana in the home as well as a weapon.
A 48-year-old man was arrested as part of the search. His son, who allegedly left the home after the search, was also arrested shortly after. While both are charged with possessing marijuana with intent to distribute, the father is also charged with possessing a gun in furtherance of a crime.
When police suspect that a crime is happening, their desire to make an arrest is likely understandable. However, suspicion alone is insufficient to warrant the search of a private residence. The two Missouri men charged will likely want to ensure that they were treated lawfully in the events leading up to and following their arrest. An attorney with experience with possession of drugs charges can help them evaluate their case and take appropriate action.
Source: columbiatribune.com, “Coffee shop owner, son charged with drug trafficking“, Feb. 20, 2018