Cocaine is one the most tightly controlled and strictly penalized illegal drugs in the country. Possession of less than one gram of cocaine is a felony offense in most jurisdictions. Getting caught with cocaine can quickly lead to severe penalties.
A large number of cocaine-related arrests occur during traffic stops. If someone is pulled over with cocaine in their possession, there are certain steps to follow to avoid the worst possible outcome.
The first and most important thing to do when pulled over with cocaine is to remain calm. As soon as the driver sees flashing police lights in the rear-view mirror, he should quickly but steadily pull to the side of the road and gradually come to a stop. The driver should pull over as far as possible, put the car in park and turn off the engine.
Before the officer reaches the driver’s side window, the driver should take a few deep breaths, place both hands on the steering wheel and turn on the interior light if it’s dark outside. Nothing can make a traffic stop go bad more quickly than a nervous attitude or frightened appearance.
During a routine traffic stop, a police officer is going to ask a few standard questions. Drivers who have been pulled over should answer all of these questions as truthfully as possible without revealing any more information than what is absolutely necessary.
Drivers should identify themselves and provide their license and insurance information when they are asked to do so. They should speak briefly and calmly.
If a driver is pulled over with drugs, overreacting could lead to a bad situation. Trying to throw the drugs out of the window or stash the drugs under the seat will only amplify the situation.
Admitting to a crime without being asked is never a good idea. The police are only interested in making arrests and getting convictions. They will use anything that you say against you if they can. That is why it is critically important to say as little as possible to avoid saying anything that might sound incriminating.
The worst thing that a driver can do in this situation is to resist an arrest. Arguing or fighting with the police will only result in pepper spray, Tasers and additional criminal charges. As soon as a driver feels handcuffs click into place around his wrists, he should only open his mouth to request a lawyer.
Legal battles are fought in courtrooms, not in jail cells. Calling a friend for bail money and asking for a lawyer are the two best steps to take after being arrested.
Cocaine charges can hurt you for the rest of your life. Not only will your family and friends find out, but so will your current and future employers. You may be fired and have difficulty finding a new job. Fortunately, there’s hope. A criminal defense attorney can create an effective case and win you your freedom. Get a hold of Brett A. Podolsky today at 713.227.0087.
*Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net
