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Fort Myers Criminal Defense Lawyer / Blog / Criminal Defense / How Do Federal Investigators Obtain Search Warrants for Drugs in Florida?

How Do Federal Investigators Obtain Search Warrants for Drugs in Florida?

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Even with access to limitless resources and the most advanced technology, federal investigators must still follow constitutional limitations when it comes to drug cases. Among these is the requirement to obtain a search warrant before breaking into someone’s home. How do federal investigators obtain these warrants? What if law enforcement searched your home for drugs without probable cause? Can a federal drug defense lawyer in Fort Myers help you fight for your constitutional rights?

FBI Investigation Leads to Drug Raid in Fort Myers Area

 In December of 2024, various sources reported that FBI agents had raided a home in a residential area near Fort Myers. The raid represented the conclusion of an investigation of suspected drug traffickers in the area, and agents at the scene told reporters that it was a “court-authorized search.” In other words, these agents had obtained a warrant prior to carrying out the raid.

So how did they obtain the warrant? The investigation reportedly began in May of 2024, and it involved the use of confidential informants. These individuals agreed to cooperate with federal agents in order to lighten their own sentences, and they began communicating with the defendants in order to organize drug transactions. These communications were carefully monitored, and federal agents were collecting evidence throughout this period.

The investigators eventually identified two residences: One where the drugs were stored, and another where the drugs were sold. Early reports suggest that these drugs were mostly meth. Reporters noted that both homes were relatively close to an elementary school, which could lead to additional penalties for the accused.

Neighbors were shocked by the entire affair, having been woken up in the early hours to federal agents shouting demands over loudspeakers. Many knew one of the defendants, describing him as a polite individual who lived with his grandmother.

The FBI agents may have obtained a search warrant from a judge, or they may have requested a subpoena from a grand jury. In both methods, the FBI, DEA, or any other federal agency must establish “probable cause” in order to obtain the warrant. In other words, they must convince the judge that the suspect is likely committing some kind of crime, and that a search of their premises would likely expose evidence helpful to their investigation.

However, it may be possible to obtain an “administrative inspection warrant” without first establishing probable cause. To learn more, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney with direct experience in federal drug cases.

How Can a Fort Myers Drug Defense Lawyer Help? 

If you suspect federal investigators searched your home without a valid warrant, a Fort Myers drug defense lawyer may be able to help you fight for your constitutional rights. These legal professionals can help you explore various defense strategies for drug distribution or trafficking charges in Florida. Choose The Foley & Wilson Law Firm, schedule a consultation, and get started with a defense strategy today.

Sources: 

winknews.com/2024/12/06/four-people-arrested-drug-related-charges-cape-coral-investigation/

nbc-2.com/article/fbi-raid-cape-coral/63137831

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