A police investigation that is targeted at specific criminal activity will often turn up evidence of other crimes, some more serious than the offense that was the target of the original investigation. The recent search of a house in Tampa recently yielded a great deal of evidence of other crimes.
The investigation
Tampa police had targeted the house in question for investigation of suspected drug activity. Police finally obtained a warrant permitting a search of the suspect’s house for drugs and related criminal paraphernalia. The two main suspects were present in the house when police arrived with the warrant, but the two men quickly fled on foot. They were soon located and taken into custody. One of the two men was carrying a 9-mm handgun when he was arrested.
The results of the search
In the house, police found 23 handguns, 9 assault rifles and one shotgun. Several of the handguns had been reported to the Tampa police as stolen. Police also found 35 grams of cocaine and 85 grams of fentanyl pills.
Criminal charges
One of the men has been charged with resisting an officer without violence, possession of cocaine with intent to sell, armed trafficking in cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, armed possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and violation of probation. The second man has been charged with resisting an officer without violence and carrying a concealed firearm.
Sound legal advice
The two suspects arrested by Tampa police are facing serious criminal charges that could carry significant penalties if the men are convicted. Even though the two defendants are deemed to be innocent unless and until they are proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, consultation with an experienced criminal attorney might be a useful step. A knowledgeable attorney can provide an evaluation of the evidence, suggest helpful defense strategies, and, if appropriate, assist in negotiating an acceptable plea agreement.
