If you allow police in Weld, Morgan or Logan County into your home, be aware that doing so allows them to search for evidence of other crimes. Earlier this summer, the cops responded to a Domestic Violence – C.R.S. 18-6-801 call at a Longmont home, and discovered two ingredients that are used to make meth. A hazmat team was called in, and the neighbors were evacuated. After a search, the hazardous materials response team concluded that there was no evidence that there was an active meth lab on the premises. The evidence has been turned over to the district attorney – charges may be filed.
Common Scenarios When Police are Invited in Your House
While police are not supposed to search your house when they come in, we often find two scenarios develop.
Do you really want people trained and paid to find law violations snooping in your closet?
- First, police say they need to do a “protective sweep” of your home for officer safety. This means they get to look in every room, in every closet, and under every bed. Do you really want people trained and paid to find law violations snooping in your closet?
- Second, we see police lying about whether you gave permission for them to search your premises. Police are not all honest, and many will lie or exaggerate the truth to advance their careers. Your consent for the search overcomes the need for a search warrant and you will be prosecuted for anything unlawful they find.
Police in your Home can Lead to Other Charges
Once you let the police into your home, you are opening yourself to other possible charges. The police in Greeley, Windsor and Fort Lupton are always looking for evidence of crime. It would be beneficial for their careers if they busted a big meth lab while doing a domestic violence call. There are many opportunities for arrest: They could see an animal in your home they consider to be abused, and could charge you with Cruelty to Animals – C.R.S. 18-9-202. Or, they could see implements that are commonly used to start a fire, and charge you on suspicion of Arson – C.R.S. 18-4-105. It is common for police to enter a home and find drugs, such as marijuana or cocaine, and charge you with Possession of a Controlled Substance – C.R.S. 18-18-204. Don’t let the police into your home voluntarily – it can only end in a bad way. Step out onto your porch and speak with police if they need to talk with you.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime after a police search in Fort Morgan, Brighton or Dacono, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009, or submit the “Get Help Now” form. Together, we can protect your future.
Image Credit: Pixabay – coyot