The morning of Jan. 24, police officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Southern Grove Drive in St. Johns County. This raid was the second to occur at the home within one week after neighbors reportedly filed complaints that the residents of the home might be involved in illegal activity. Five individuals now stand accused of committing drug offenses.
Following the raid, police claim to have found an unspecified quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. They also claim to have located prescription medication in the possession of individuals who did not immediately produce a prescription.
The 40-year-old woman who owns the home jointly with her husband was arrested and accused of maintaining a drug dwelling. Her 20-year-old son and a 19-year-old female were also arrested and charged with various drug crimes. The homeowner is being held until she can post a $10,000 bond. A judge set bail for the 20-year-old son at $3,500 and for the other woman at $5,750.
Earlier in the week, two 18-year-old individuals were also arrested at the home, including the homeowner’s other son. One of them was held without bond after police reportedly discovered outstanding warrants accusing her of interfering with child custody, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and drug charges. Bail for the homeowner’s son was set at $5,000.
There are many ways that a criminal defense lawyer may be able to help someone accused of a crime. At the arraignment, it may be possible to argue for reduced bail. A lawyer may be able to request and review evidence in order to help determine the validity of a search warrant. It may also be possible to move to revoke the warrant and suppress evidence seized.
Source: Historic City News, “Five arrests to date at drug dwelling in Southern Grove”, St. Augustine, January 24, 2014