If law enforcement detects the smell of marijuana emanating from your vehicle during a stop, they may have probable cause to conduct a search for contraband in an automobile or on its occupants.
Probable cause can be established when there is a fair probability that evidence of a crime will be found in the location searched.
Even in states where possession of a small amount of marijuana has been decriminalized, it remains a banned substance and the pungent smell of marijuana in any amount may provide police probable cause to search a vehicle.
The strong odor of the now popular high grade marijuana makes it especially easy to detect. More often than not, recently smoked marijuana is the reason many motorists become subject to a search. However, there are cases where the smell of weed packed away in the trunk double-wrapped has alerted officers to the possession of drugs.
In Wisconsin, the smell of burned marijuana coming from a passenger vehicle is typically enough to establish probable cause for police to conduct a search of the automobile and its occupants. Your best bet is not to travel with any amount of marijuana in your vehicle to avoid being arrested for drug possession.
If you have been charged with marijuana possession or another drug offense in Wisconsin, contact the Waukesha criminal defense law offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for help. Our experienced criminal defense lawyers can defend you against charges of possession, trafficking, cultivation and manufacturing, possession with the intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia. Call or email us today for immediate help 262-542-3900 Free Consultation.
