Time Taken for Drug-Sniffing Dog Not Enough to Block Motion to Suppress
The police stopped two men for a lane change violation, and during the time it took the officer to complete an identity check on the passenger, he discovered the existence of drugs through the use of his dog. He searched the vehicle, having been provided probable cause, and discovered nearly ten pounds of marijuana. The […]
Georgia’s Appeals Court Determines How the Role of a Tipster Transitioned into Participant-Informer
Hall Superior Court found a defendant guilty of possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute, criminal attempt to commit the sale of cocaine, and use of a communication facility in facilitating a commission of a felony criminal act. The defendant appealed, believing that the State should have identified its confidential informant because he was […]
Georgia Appeals Court Determines Sufficient Probable Cause for Search Warrant
Bartow Superior Court convicted Tyrone Johnson of trafficking in cocaine and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. Mr. Johnson filed a Motion to Suppress Evidence, believing that the accompanying affidavit to the search warrant did not provide “a confidential informant’s reliability and credibility.” The court denied his motion. Georgia’s Court of Appeals reviewed Mr. […]
Court of Appeals Denies Grant of New Trial
Georgia’s Mitchell Superior Court convicted Frederick L. Shelton of cocaine possession, obstructing an officer, and a sound violation. Shelton believed his counsel to be lacking and asked the trial court for a new trial, which the court granted. After reviewing the case, the Court of Appeals disagreed with the trial court’s decision, noting several flaws […]
