Arrest warrants are court documents authorizing police to arrest and hold the person named in the warrant. With modern methods of communication, these warrants can be accessed by police in many different jurisdictions. A recent arrest in Indiana County shows just how far these warrants can reach.
The arrest
The suspect in question was arrested in East Wheatfield Township at about 12:40 a.m. on Friday, January 8, 2021. The initial reason for the arrest was a traffic stop for speeding and erratic driving. Officers conducted an incidental search of the man’s vehicle and found 60 stamp bags of a substance suspected to be heroin, 11 empty stamp bags, and various types of drug paraphernalia. The man was also believed to have been under the influence of narcotics. After the arrest, the suspect was taken to Indiana Regional Medical Center for a blood test. The test disclosed that the man had narcotics in his blood stream.
The suspect was then arrested and charged with drug possession and driving under the influence of an intoxicating substance. Later court records charge the man with possession of drugs with intent to deliver, DUI, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. A later check of police records revealed that the suspect is subject to three inactive warrants in Indiana County. He was alleged to have committed three crimes on the same day: disorderly conduct and two vehicle-related crimes.
Now what?
The defendant in this case is facing several serious criminal charges. If he is convicted he faces a significant period of incarceration, a possible fine, and loss of driving privileges. Anyone facing similar charges may wish to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney for advice. A knowledgeable defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence, suggest potential defenses, and, if appropriate, assist in negotiating an acceptable plea agreement.