Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota
Drug Charges?
I am a full time college student and spend around 15 hours a day at school. I live with drug users, which i dont mind since they are old friends and the rent is cheap. I am now worried that if something happens at the apartment, i might be arrested and charged too. I am wondering what the laws are concerning this matter and what charges if any i might face.
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Drug Charges?
If there are narcotics and paraphrenalia in common areas of the house so that you would likely be aware of their presence,you could be charged with possession of narcotics based on the existence of that contraband in your home. Depending on the narcotic and the volume, it could be a felony charge which is very serious.
Re: Drug Charges?
You are wise to ask this question before something happens, and not after a "bust."
I agree with my colleague's assessment and would encourage you to either find a new place to live, or move your friends out (if they don't otherwise reform) -- particularly if they are in possession of large quantities of marijuana or more serious drugs.
Re: Drug Charges?
The police are notorious for arresting and charging everyone who lives in a location where drugs are found.
Unfortunately in a case where you are simply a roommate, and you have been charged with a drug crime, you are forced to prove your innocence instead of innocent until proven guilty, as our constitution dictates.
I would recommend you find new roommates or move. If you place is raided, don't say anything to the cops about who owns the drugs, but talk to an attorney immediately. If you tell the cops too much up front, there is no material for an attorney to negotiate with in a case like this.
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