07 Nov Traffic stop leads to drug, drunk driving charges for two
Two men were facing charges after New York authorities accused them of driving under the influence while being in possession of drugs on Oct. 17. The two individuals were identified as a 22-year-old Danbury man and a 35-year-old Waterbury resident, both from Connecticut.
While police were conducting the traffic stop, it was determined that the license plate was stolen and that the vehicle itself was not registered. An unknown amount of cocaine and rolled up bills that appeared to contain cocaine residue was also recovered. The driver was also found to be three times over the legal limit after he provided a breath sample. Authorities additionally determined that there was an active bench warrant out for the passenger.
The driver was charged with possession of a controlled substance, aggravated driving while intoxicated, resisting arrest and other misdemeanor charges. He was issued an appearance ticket after being released on his own recognizance. The passenger was charged with failing to surrender to a bench warrant, criminal possession of a controlled substance and other misdemeanor violations. He was remanded to the Putnam County Jail.
Those who are accused of drunk driving and other charges face both legal and administrative consequences. This means that in addition to a potential jail sentence, community service or probation, a person accused of drunk driving could lose his or her driving privileges for several months or even a year. Because drunk driving cases in New York can move swiftly, a criminal law attorney may work quickly to find flaws in the prosecution’s case while determining what defenses might be viable based on the evidence. In some cases, the evidence may be suppressed if a person’s rights were violated during the arrest or the police failed to follow procedures.
Source: Danbury Daily Voice, “Danbury Man Faces DWI, Drug Charges After Traffic Stop In NY,” Oct. 17, 2017