Two 19-year-old Connecticut residents were arrested on charges of trafficking heroin after a routine traffic stop in another state. According to reports, the two men were driving on Interstate 84 in a rental car around 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 3, when the vehicle was stopped for failing to stay within the marked lanes.
According to police, neither man was authorized to operate the rental car, and the 19-year-old driver was found to be carrying a false identification card and did not have a driver's license. When officers searched the trunk of the rental car, they allegedly found a black plastic bag containing 1,600 packets of heroin. Officers also reported finding $980 cash on the driver.
The 19-year-old passenger was charged with heroin trafficking, while the driver was charged with negligent operation, unlicensed operation, using a motor vehicle without authority, heroin trafficking, drug conspiracy and providing a false name to police.
When an individual is arrested while traveling out of town, it can be even more disconcerting and overwhelming. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident, it is possible that the defendant will have to appear in court where ever the arrest occurred. No matter where the arraignment or trial takes place, however, all defendants have a right to legal representation.
Officers must follow certain procedures when searching a vehicle after a traffic stop to ensure that the rights of the driver or passengers are not violated. It is common for defendants to be unclear about whether or not officers searched their vehicles or property legally, and discussing the particulars of the case with an attorney can help them better understand the circumstances and their options moving forward.
Source: masslive.com, "Massachusetts State Police arrest 2 Connecticut men on heroin trafficking charges after I-84 traffic stop in Sturbridge" Conor Berry, Nov. 04, 2014