According to Fox 5 News Las Vegas, local police executed a search warrant at a Summerlin Home discovering "Spice", a product designed to mimic the effects of marijuana (the full article is available here, http://www.fox5vegas.com/story/19376997/police-searching-summerlin-home-for-drugs). According to the news report, the search stemmed from a traffic stop earlier in the day. According to the article, law enforcement is attempting to determine whether the substance was meant for distribution. Synthetic marijuana has proven difficult to regulate despite Federal attempts by the Drug Enforcement Administration to ban the substance.
This situation demonstrates how Traffic stops can quickly escalate. Being aware of your rights with regard to vehicle searches and traffic stops can mean the difference between a simple fine and serious criminal charges. The fourth amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees citizens the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures by government officials without a warrant. Over the years the courts have eroded our fourth amendment rights giving rise to a variety of so called "warrantless" searches. A large part of these efforts have been implemented to increase officer safety. Nevertheless, citizens should know their rights before consenting to a search of their vehicle or answering questions posed to them by law enforcement. In Nevada a warrantless search may be instigated by reasonable suspicion that a person has committed a crime. During a traffic stop you may be required to give your name or drivers license, but you are not required to answer questions asked by law enforcement. You have the right to remain silent when questioned by officers. Further, you are under no obligation to grant law enforcement officer's requests to search you or your property. Often times officers will simply ask to search you or your property when they know they do not have cause to do so. Under most circumstances you have the right to decline an officer's request to search your person, your vehicle or your home. In Nevada an arrest without a warrant may only occur upon probable cause. If you have been arrested, you have the right to consult with an attorney. Once you invoke your right to an attorney law enforcement must stop questioning you.
If you are facing criminal charges in either Nevada state or federal court, contact one of the attorneys at Connor & Connor Pllc. as soon as possible for a free consultation. For a consultation you can email the attorneys at info@connorpllc.com, telephone (702) 749-5992 or visit www.connorpllc.com.
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