After an encounter with police, you may have been accused of possessing cocaine in North Carolina. These accusations can be life-changing, even if the drugs were not yours. Even if you have no idea how the drugs ended up in your possession, you could still face charges. Fortunately, you are not alone in the legal battle ahead – and there are many ways to prove that the cocaine was not yours. Speak with an experienced cocaine defense lawyer in North Carolina for more information.
The Drugs Could Have Been Planted
The first thing to consider is whether the drugs were planted on you by corrupt law enforcement officers. Unfortunately, this is a real issue in North Carolina – and in 2023, a deputy pleaded guilty to this offense. A defense attorney may be able to investigate the circumstances of your arrest and prove that the drugs were planted on you.
Alternatively, a criminal might have planted the drugs on you. Perhaps you came into contact with a cocaine dealer, and they slipped the drugs into your pocket to save their own skin. Again, a criminal defense attorney could look into your situation and find evidence that something like this occurred.
Unwitting possession is a legitimate defense in North Carolina, and you cannot be found guilty of possessing drugs without realizing it.
Being Forced to Carry Drugs Against Your Will
In addition, you should be able to escape consequences if you prove that someone else forced you to carry the cocaine against your will. This is called “operating under duress,” and it means you had little say in the matter. Drug dealers are dangerous people, and you might have agreed to carry the cocaine to save your own life.
Challenging the Chain of Custody
Alternatively, you could attempt to challenge the chain of custody. This is the legal record of the drugs being transported and stored by the authorities. If there are any issues with this chain of custody, the drugs may have been tampered with or planted. This is another viable strategy in North Carolina, and your defense attorney can help you execute it.
Lack of Evidence
In North Carolina, prosecutors must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a high burden of proof, and they may lack the necessary evidence to meet this standard. If your alleged possession of the drugs is based on flimsy evidence, you could walk free. For example, police may have found a baggy of cocaine on the sidewalk after chasing you around a corner. However, this baggy could have come from anyone – and there may be little evidence that it dropped from your pocket.
Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer in North Carolina Help With Cocaine Possession?
A criminal defense lawyer in North Carolina may be able to help you push back against cocaine charges. If you believe that the drugs were planted, you might just be correct. You can also prove that the drugs belonged to someone else. To learn more about these defense strategy options, consider a consultation with Coastal South Law. Reach out today to get started with an effective defense strategy.
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