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AT ANDREWS TERRY JEFFERS LLP,

TRUST IS EVERYTHING

When is a K-9 search legal during a traffic stop?

| July 19, 2021 

In Vancouver, Washington, people who are subject to a traffic stop, have their vehicle searched and are subsequently confronted by drug charges might wonder about their rights and if the search is legal. This is especially concerning if there was a K-9 used to aid in the search. Since drug charges can be so serious with hefty consequences legally, personally and professionally, it is important to think about the evidence and if it was accumulated based on the law.

Legal ruling addressed K-9 vehicle searches for drugs

For those who are worried about a K-9 search that found drugs leading to an arrest, a case addressed this very issue. A man was arrested for marijuana trafficking after he was stopped for speeding and a drug dog was brought in to sniff the vehicle. The Supreme Court stated that law enforcement does not require reasonable suspicion before using a drug-sniffing K-9 when making a traffic stop. However, the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution does not apply as dogs are only sniffing out illegal items. With that, a dog can be used when a traffic stop is made.

Despite that, law enforcement cannot keep a person at the scene without justification until the K-9 arrives. If, for example, the traffic stop is for speeding, then the officer can take the necessary time to check the license and write the citation, but not stall until the K-9 arrives. If the officer making the stop has a K-9, then the dog can sniff for illegal substances. This is a critical aspect of a criminal defense for drug crimes.

Crafting strategies for a defense may require experienced advice

Even if the drug charges stem from a valid K-9 search, it does not eliminate other avenues of defense. The K-9 might not have a reliable record for drug searches, the traffic stop could have been questionable or there may be other reasons why the case can be fought at trial. The situation must be scrutinized and having professional help is imperative to forge a viable defense and avoid the worst penalties.

Further Reading

Cocaine laws and sentencing in Washington

April 13, 2023 
In all states, cocaine possession, distribution and trafficking qualify as serious criminal offenses. Individuals caught violating laws regarding cocaine could face severe legal consequences. The following details spell out important state laws and the resulting sentences for violations. Possession Possession is a felony offense for individuals caught with cocaine. The crime carries a sentence of [โ€ฆ]

Plea agreements in the state of Washington

December 23, 2022 
Plea agreements are a common practice in the criminal justice system of Washington. These agreements allow defendants to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence or the dismissal of additional charges. Plea agreements can be a valuable tool for both prosecutors and defendants, as they can save time and resources [โ€ฆ]
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