Sometimes when Virginia citizens are pulled over for a routine traffic stop, they wind up facing much more serious charges than what they were originally pulled over for. Even so, it is important for Virginians to remember that the law provides a number of rights and protections for accused individuals, even during a traffic stop. Charges related to drug crimes can often be dismissed in court; that is, if law enforcement fails to ensure that individuals' rights are maintained before, during or after an arrest. With these issues in mind, readers may be interested in the case of a Virginia man who is now facing drug possession charges after what started as a routine traffic stop.

The incident occurred recently in Manassas Park. Manassas Park Police reportedly pulled over a Kia Spectra driven by an 18-year-old man. However, initial press reports did not provide information as to what probable cause may have led the police to pull the young man over.

The teenager's vehicle was then searched. It was not indicated in initial media reports whether a search warrant or probable cause for the search was given at the time, but the police allegedly found marijuana in the center console of the vehicle. Now the young man is facing a drug possession charge, as well as driving on a suspended license. He is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 19.

Convictions related to drug crimes can sometimes carry a stigma, in addition to a criminal record that could potentially follow the accused individual for the rest of his or her life. However, Virginia law provides multiple rights for individuals accused of a crime. The young man in this case is still only a teenager, and charges such as the ones he now faces could even prevent him from getting certain jobs in the future. That is why it is important for him to gather his strength to mount a proper defense that is aimed at a dismissal or reduction of charges.

Source: insidenova.com, "Manassas Park man faces drug charges," David Pierce, Dec. 14, 2011