Punta Gorda traffic stop turns into arrest for active homicide warrant

Punta Gorda, FL – Some criminal cases begin with the police finding a person and making an arrest because of an active warrant. Those who have been taken into custody for any reason should always get legal advice before answering any questions from law enforcement or accepting a plea deal.

Fox 4 Now reported on an incident in Punta Gorda where a man pulled over for a traffic stop was taken into custody on a warrant for homicide [1].

Two suspects taken into custody during routine traffic stop

The Florida Highway Patrol reported that they made contact with a 2010 Mercedes vehicle that had a 33 year old female driver and 35 year old male passenger. During a routine traffic stop of the vehicle in the area of Truckers Grade Road and Interstate Highway 75, the officers on the scene discovered that both individuals had issues with criminal activity. The female driver was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and illegal possession of a firearm by a felon. Her male passenger was wanted on a homicide warrant that was apparently tied to a fatal shooting incident in the St. Petersburg area back in 2016. The police reported that he would also be charged for giving a false name to police, as well as crimes related to controlled substances and firearm possession.

The purpose of a warrant

An arrest warrant in criminal cases gives the government the authority to make an arrest based on a prior conviction or suspicion of the commission of a crime. If the person does not appear on their required court date, it is possible that a judge can issue a bench warrant to have the person taken into custody and make a required court appearance. In situations such as those above, it is common for people with a criminal history to be arrested on outstanding warrants when the police make contact with them for additional crimes.

Regardless of whether a person is arrested on a warrant or shortly after a crime is committed, they are entitled to a defense case and other procedural protections such as a trial and the right to remain silent. Defense attorneys also regularly look for issues with arrest and search warrants to ensure that there is the proper legal authority to detain a person or search their belongings.

Advice from a local criminal attorney

The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb is a criminal defense firm that works with clients in Punta Gorda. Their lawyers can provide advice immediately following an arrest and through to a trial.

USAttorneys.com is a website that helps people find lawyers in their city or state. Anyone who needs additional information can call 800-672-3103 for a referral.

Firm contact info:

The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A.

2423 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901

866-949-0888

www.michaelraheb.com

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