3 arrested for alleged drug crimes in Alabama

A routine traffic stop apparently led to several arrests in the city of Selma, according to local authorities. The sheriff’s department in Selma, Alabama, said three men have been accused of drug crimes and are now in custody. All three individuals are currently in custody awaiting trial, though no trial dates have yet been confirmed.

According to the police report, deputies saw a vehicle run a red light on the night of Jan. 26. When they pulled the vehicle over, one of the passengers, a 26-year-old man, reportedly leaped from the car and tried to escape on foot. He was caught shortly thereafter and was arrested. Police say they noticed a strong odor they believed to be marijuana emanating from the car, prompting them to search the vehicle.

Inside, they say they found an open bottle of whiskey, as well as drug paraphernalia including cash, scales, pills and plastic bags in addition to an unknown quantity of what is believed to be marijuana. A gun was also reportedly recovered from the car, but it is unclear whether the weapon was loaded at the time. Police arrested a 31-year-old man and a 29-year-old man. All three have been charged with drug crimes.

The penalties for drug crimes in Alabama can be very steep, especially if it is a repeat offense. However, as in all states, the accused men are presumed innocent until proved guilty. They will each be represented by their own criminal defense attorney, who will carefully review all the facts of the case to determine whether there is cause to call for a reduction in the charges or the dismissal of the case altogether.