Does Law Enforcement Need Search Warrants to Use Drug Dogs?

Law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania, and throughout the U.S., often use drug-sniffing dogs when investigating drug-related offenses. Like many who are the subjects of such investigations, you may question whether the use of these dogs on your private property was legal. In order to help ensure your rights are not violated, it may benefit you […]

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The Penalties for Possession of Marijuana in Pennsylvania

While some states throughout the U.S. have legalized marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, Pennsylvania is not yet one of them. As such, the possession of this Schedule I substance is considered a serious crime and a conviction on these charges could result in significant penalties. The Pennsylvania State Police report that in June of […]

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Vehicle Search Laws in Pennsylvania

Philadelphia residents who are pulled over for a traffic stop may wonder if police officers are allowed to search their vehicles without a warrant. According to an article by RT.com, last year it became legal for law enforcement to conduct warrantless vehicle searches in Pennsylvania. Previously, authorities were required to obtain a warrant before they […]

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Judge Gives Villanova Teen Second Chance After Drug Charges

A drug conviction often comes with serious charges that can impact a person for a lifetime. These penalties can be especially hard on young people in Philadelphia who have their whole lives ahead of them. However, it is possible for some to turn their lives around after being given another chance, even if drug trafficking […]

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High Racial Disparity in Pennsylvania Marijuana Arrests

According to a report by the American Civil Liberties Union, there is a high racial disparity in Pennsylvania’s marijuana-related arrests. The study shows that whites in the state are 5.2 times less likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than African Americans. This is higher than the national average, in which whites, on average, are […]

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