Criminal defense may prove difficult if you lie to police

A 22-year-old college student is said to have recently attended a music festival in another state. While there, police officers visited his home near the University of Alabama campus. His roommate denied their request to enter; they apparently obtained a search warrant and said they found substantial amounts of drugs and cash in the house. Authorities say he promised them he’d return to turn himself in, but he never showed up. Generally speaking, most criminal defense analysts would agree that’s not the best way to handle such situations.

When authorities searched the student’s home, they said they found nearly $60,000 in cash, over 4 pounds of marijuana, cocaine and various other types of drugs and drug paraphernalia. They also claim there were illegal drugs and packaging materials in a cooler on the student’s front porch. The roommate allegedly admitted knowing his friend dabbled in drug transactions but had no clue he was running a sophisticated drug operation.

Authorities say they have spoken with the student in question several times by phone but haven’t discussed the matter with him in person. They’ve implored anyone with knowledge of his exact whereabouts to come forward. It’s logical to assume a person’s criminal defense situation would only become more challenging if a supposed promise to turn oneself in is left unfulfilled.

Many times, it’s a defendant’s word against an officer’s. The outcome of every case is unique to its own circumstances. Chances of avoiding conviction or at least staying out of jail are usually increased by retaining the help of an experienced Alabama criminal defense attorney before heading to court.

Source: tuscaloosanews.com, “Police: College student “on the run” after major drug bust“, Stephanie Taylor, June 22, 2017