It is not at all unusual for what seems to be a routine traffic stop to end with an arrest for drug charges. As you are likely aware, the police cannot not simply arbitrarily stop a car and conduct a search, in the same way that they could not simply break down your door and search your house without a warrant. The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures.

But obviously there are times when the police come into contact with individuals and the police then claim to discover illegal drugs. Often this contact is initiated during a traffic stop. Whether it is a mile or two over the speed limit or failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign police may try to use even the slightest violation to initiate contact.

Recently, a musician and co-founder of Death Row records was arrested in Las Vegas. He was jailed briefly on charges of possession of marijuana. He also had several outstanding warrants for traffic violations. The arrest occurred after the musician was driving near the Las Vegas strip and authorities claim that they saw him change lanes and make a turn without properly using his turn signal. Law enforcement authorities saw that they discovered a small amount of marijuana on him resulting in a misdemeanor charge.

It is important to remember that prosecutors cannot introduce evidence into a criminal trial if it was discovered as the result of an illegal search. This is often a crucial factor in defending drug charges.

Source: Reuters News, "Suge Knight arrested in Las Vegas," Feb. 10, 2012