F
firstbust
Guest
What is the name of your state? New York
I was recently (3 days ago) arrested during a police raid, along with all of the 34 other people who were in an after hours bar. This is not a rave scene - it's a small bar, and most patrons are above the age of 30 (not that it's any excuse to be in an illegal bar, but just to provide some context).
During the raid, the police found several small packages of cocaine and marijuana that had been apparently thrown on the floor - so they decided to arrest everyone. We were all searched at the scene, and all of our personal belongings (money, etc) confiscated. I spent about 40 hours in jail before being arraigned, and am being charged with possession of a controlled substance. I did not have any drugs or weapons on my person, and have never had any legal trouble before, besides traffic tickets. I was also never read my rights.
I plan to hire a lawyer, but I'd also like to educate myself as much as possible about what I'm facing.
Some questions:
- Was this a legal search of my person?
- Was this a legal arrest?
- Is there any way that I can be found guilty of possession if I didn't actually "possess" anything?
I would appreciate any insights into this situation. It has been the worst experience of my life.
Thanks
I was recently (3 days ago) arrested during a police raid, along with all of the 34 other people who were in an after hours bar. This is not a rave scene - it's a small bar, and most patrons are above the age of 30 (not that it's any excuse to be in an illegal bar, but just to provide some context).
During the raid, the police found several small packages of cocaine and marijuana that had been apparently thrown on the floor - so they decided to arrest everyone. We were all searched at the scene, and all of our personal belongings (money, etc) confiscated. I spent about 40 hours in jail before being arraigned, and am being charged with possession of a controlled substance. I did not have any drugs or weapons on my person, and have never had any legal trouble before, besides traffic tickets. I was also never read my rights.
I plan to hire a lawyer, but I'd also like to educate myself as much as possible about what I'm facing.
Some questions:
- Was this a legal search of my person?
- Was this a legal arrest?
- Is there any way that I can be found guilty of possession if I didn't actually "possess" anything?
I would appreciate any insights into this situation. It has been the worst experience of my life.
Thanks