Many states across the country are becoming stricter regarding the prosecution of and sentencing guidelines for drug crimes. Even a first time offense can lead to serious consequences. Most suspects that are accused of drug crimes are worried about potential jail time and compromising a job. The last thing you want is a drug conviction on your record. For this reason, if you are facing drug charges, it is important that you understand your rights.

In recent news, a local Oregon man faces charges after police allegedly discovered more than five pounds of heroin in his freezer. Police claim that authorities followed up on drug complaints around Southeast 92nd Avenue and Division Street on January 13. According to reports, officers knocked on the door of a residence, and the individual who answered the door supposedly granted authorities permission to search the home.

According to reports, officers found 4.67 pounds of packaged heroin in the freezer and 1.1 pounds of individually wrapped pieces. Police arrested the suspect and booked him into the Multnomah County Jail. Police allege that the value of the seized heroin is between $390,000 and $446,000.

There are many legal technicalities involved in home searches and seizures. For example, if any evidence was collected, it must have been gathered in accordance with the man's constitutional rights. If an arresting officer did not honor the rights of the suspect, a judge may throw out any accusatory evidence that was improperly obtained. For this reason, if you are facing drug charges like the suspect in this story, you may want to investigate your legal rights and possibilities. A lawyer may help you navigate through the complexities of the law.

Source: KATU 2, "Police find nearly 6 lbs. of heroin in suspect's freezer," Jan. 25, 2012