Drug Crimes, Substance Abuse marijuana charge. didn't consent to search

[kb1111]

I was taking my co-worker home from work. He said he needed to stop by a friends house really quick. We left shortly after where I was pulled over by an undercover offier. I was told that my registration was suspended due to lack of emissions testing (got the car back day before). Officers ask us to step out. We did. Then one officer asks if he can search my car. I replied "not without a warrant" The officer put his head down, looked to the side, laughed and said "we're going to search your car anyway" they found what looked like less than a gram. Apparently the deal my co-worker made was next to a officers house that had been broken into. So, I suppose they perceived going into the adjacent house as suspicious activity. What are my options? First charge ever btw.

 

[Betty3]

You might want to talk to an attorney.

 

[mightymoose]

When the time comes you will need to lawyer up. An attorney can review the reports and figure out how to present the best defense.
There are circumstances in which police can search your vehicle without a warrant. You may not be aware what those circumstances are, so it is hard to say if the search was not justified. I highly doubt the officers report will indicate that you first refused permission to search. You will eed to make it clear that AFTER you refused permission the officer proceeded with the search.

 

[CdwJava]

They probably smelled the marijuana which likely gave them sufficient cause to conduct the search. Marijuana has a rather distinctive and pungent aroma to it.