On May 9, it was reported that a 60-year-old New York man was taken into police custody after his home was raided by police officers. The raid is said to have occurred on May 7, though it was not stated what evidence prompted the incursion.
The Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force stated that the raid took place at a home located in Dunkirk. Authorities reportedly found marijuana plants that were being grown using automated watering, indoor lights and other growing tools. They reportedly seized an unknown number of marijuana plants that were estimated to be valued at approximately $50,000. They also reportedly seized marijuana that had been processed as well as growing records.
The man was charged with a number of drug-related offenses, including unlawful growing of marijuana. Investigators stated that he could potentially face further charges, though it was not known what those charges may be.
In most cases, before law enforcement officials can enter and search a home without the consent of the occupant, they must seek and obtain a search warrant. The search warrant can be granted by a judge only after authorities have provided evidence that demonstrates that, for example, illegal activities may be occurring within the home. If a person is facing drug charges following the search of a home, a criminal defense attorney may review the case to determine if a warrant was properly obtained. Any violation of the defendant’s Fourth Amendment protections against unlawful searches could possibly result in the evidence that was seized being ruled inadmissible at a subsequent trial.
Source: Daily Journal, “Drug task force raids home, seizes marijuana growing operation; homeowner facing charges”, May 9, 2015