Most people suspect that drug charges and arrests are the result of long, pains-taking investigations. In fact, many arrests are the result of neighborhood complaints about suspicious activities in nearby houses. A recent arrest in Beaumont shows now neighborhood complaint can lead to police surveillance and a subsequent arrest.
The incident
The Sheriff’s Department was alerted to the possibility of drug transactions being conducted by neighbors who noticed what the Sheriff’s Office called “suspicious activity.” After receiving the complaints, the Sheriff’s office set up a surveillance of the suspected location for the drug deals. Police also obtained a warrant authorizing a search of the house and the arrest of the sole adult occupant of the house. Upon entering the house to carry out a search pursuant to the warrant, police found a bag containing 3.1 grams of methamphetamine on the kitchen table.
The suspect was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, and he was incarcerated subject to posting bail in the amount of $10,000. Media coverage of the investigation said nothing about a further investigation or additional charges being filed.
What next?
Anyone who may be facing criminal charges under similar circumstances may benefit from a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can provide a useful evaluation of the evidence and an opinion about whether the existing charges can be defeated or whether a plea agreement may be a better strategy.