Being accused of drug possession can be devastating, especially if law enforcement officers planted the drugs. Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon occurrence and can happen to anyone. In this situation, remaining calm and knowing your rights are essential. Here are some steps you can take if cops plant drugs on you:
Stay Calm and Composed
The first thing you need to do is stay calm. It can be complicated to remain composed when falsely accused of a crime, but you mustn’t panic or become aggressive. Remember that the police are trained to handle situations like this and will be looking for any signs of aggression or panic to use against you.
Do Not Consent to a Search
Do not consent if the police ask to search your belongings. The police need a warrant or probable cause to search; you have the right to refuse if they do not have either. It is important to remain polite but firm in your refusal.
Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
If the police start questioning you, you must invoke your right to remain silent. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in court. You should say, “I want to remain silent and speak to a lawyer.”
Ask for a Lawyer
If the police question you, you should ask for a criminal defense lawyer. You have the right to an attorney, and the police must provide you with one if you cannot afford one. Your lawyer will be able to advise you on what to say and what not to say to the police.
Document Everything
Write down the time and location of the incident, the names and badge numbers of the officers involved, and any other details that you can remember. This information will be vital if you decide to take legal action.
Do Not Tamper with the Evidence
Trying to get rid of the evidence may be tempting if the cops put drugs on you. But tampering with the evidence is a serious offense that might worsen things. Anything that the police have placed on you do not touch or move.
Get a Bail Bond
If you are arrested, you may be able to get a bail bond to get out of jail. A bail bond is a type of insurance policy you pay for to ensure you will show up for your court date. Bail bond companies can post bail for you for a fee of about 10% of the total bail amount.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you face drug charges, you must hire a criminal defense lawyer. A good lawyer can review the evidence against you and develop a strategy for your defense. They will also be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to try to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
In addition to conducting an investigation, a criminal defense attorney can help you build a strong defense. A good lawyer will be able to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and determine the best course of action to take to protect your rights. An attorney can also present evidence to the court that may help prove your innocence.
File a Complaint
You can also file a complaint with the Office of Professional Responsibility or the Internal Affairs Department of the police department. These organizations investigate complaints of police misconduct.
Take Legal Action
You can sue the police department for civil rights violations, false arrest, or malicious prosecution. You may be able to recover damages for any harm you suffered due to the police misconduct.
Conclusion
It is important to remember that if the police plant drugs on you, it is illegal and you should not accept any of the accusations. If you have been wrongfully accused of a drug crime, it is important to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Hennessy Law, LLC’s priority is to uphold our clients’ rights. With 50 years of experience, we offer ardent client representation and competent and empathetic help. We represent clients in criminal defense and personal injury cases in state and federal courts in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. Contact us to speak with a criminal defense lawyer!
