The execution of a search warrant in North Carolina on the morning of Jan. 8 led to the seizure of drugs, guns, and a stolen utility vehicle according to a press release from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives from the Henderson County Drug Task Force conducted the search and were supported by deputies assigned to the HCSO’s Crime Suppression Unit. A man and a woman were taken into custody at the scene.
The search warrant was executed at a residence on Peaceful View Trail in the unincorporated community of Edneyville. Initial reports do not indicate what led law enforcement to believe that the property was being used to store and distribute illegal narcotics. During the search, deputies and detectives allegedly discovered an undisclosed amount of methamphetamine, eight firearms and an all-terrain vehicle. A records check is said to have revealed that the ATV had been reported stolen in Georgia.
The man has been charged with eight counts of possessing a gun while a convicted felon and single counts of methamphetamine possession and possessing drug paraphernalia. His secured bond has been set at $92,500. The woman has been charged with possessing methamphetamine and possessing drug paraphernalia. Her bond has been set at $6,500. After the search was completed, the HCSO placed a lawn sign outside the home stating that a drug house had been closed down.
People who are taken into custody during operations like this one often feel that they have little choice but to cooperate with law enforcement, but experienced criminal defense attorneys may advise them to remain silent until they ahve scrutinized the search warrant application and police report. Evidence discovered during a search is usually admissible in court when police obtain a warrant, but it may be excluded in certain situations. Attorneys may seek to have evidence ruled inadmissible and drug trafficking charges dismissed if the officers involved went beyond the scope of the warrant.