After a criminal investigation, such as an investigation into alleged drug crimes, police in New City may be quick to attempt a search and seizure. However, the police must follow certain procedures before they can search homes or other premises or seize evidence. If the police overstep their authority, they may violate the defendant’s constitutional right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure.
Recently, two connected raids in New York uncovered what is alleged to be heroin. The incidents took place in Yonkers and in the Bronx. The amount of alleged drugs seized totaled over 60 pounds and is allegedly worth $30 million. In addition to the reported drugs, in one of the raids officers allegedly uncovered $50,000 that was concealed in the structure of the building searched in the Bronx. In the search of the Yonkers location, a substance alleged to be heroin was found hidden in a motor vehicle and a storage locker. Two men are now facing drug charges in connection with the raids.
The U.S. Constitution prohibits unreasonable search and seizure. In general, police officers need a warrant before they can legally search a residence or other premises. There are exceptions for the warrant requirement, but the circumstances must still make the search reasonable. If police perform an illegal search and seizure, any evidence found may not be admissible in a criminal case against the accused.
A person’s constitutional rights against illegal search and seizure must be protected. People facing drug charges need to have a strong defense, and the protection of the U.S. Constitution can be crucial in building that defense. Experienced criminal defense attorneys can help those facing charges to understand their rights and how to use them to defend themselves.
Source: New City Patch, Cops Raid $30 Million Westchester-Bronx Heroin Ring
