An arrest in one state could reveal that the accused in facing charges in another state. Facing multiple state and federal charges is a complex and overwhelming position to be in. For some defendants, they may look at their situation as hopeless, as law enforcement has collected evidence against them. However, this is not true as there are many opportunities to poke holes in a case by asserting a criminal defense.
According to recent reports, a fugitive wanted in the state of Georgia for crimes committed there was arrested at a hotel in Ocala. Authorities stated that two other men were at the hotel with the supposed fugitive, resulting in all three men facing local weapons and drug charges.
U.S. marshals and drug agents apprehended the presumed 20-year-old male fugitive. The fugitive was wanted for numerous offenses, including armed robbery, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Additionally, the young man is wanted for questioning regarding a triple homicide in Georgia.
During the search of the hotel room, the keys to a nearby room were located. Upon approaching the door to this hotel room, officers claim that they smelled a strong odor of marijuana. After entering the room, authorities observed a large amount of drugs and firearms. A search warrant was issued and authorities recovered nine guns, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, heroine, crystal methamphetamine, hydrocodone pills, marijuana and two scales.
Police investigations have the tendency of uncovering a lot of evidence. Nonetheless, this does not mean that all evidence collected was legally obtained and can be used against a defendant. Thus, it is important to gain a full picture of your situation when devising a defense strategy. This could help the accused reduce and even dismiss some or all charges against them.
Source: Ocala.com, “Three, including fugitive, face weapons and drug charges,” Austin L. Miller, Dec. 21, 2017
