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Seizure Notices from Customs and Border Protection

April 15, 2021

If you order a controlled substance from an overseas pharmacy without a valid prescription, then you risk having the package intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The Code of Federal Regulations, particularly 21 C.F.R. sections 1312.11 and 1312.12, prohibits the importation of controlled substances without the express authorization of the DEA. The unauthorized importation is subject to seizure and forfeiture under 19 U.S.C. section 1595a(c)(1)(B). You may simply receive a compliance notice in the mail that allows you to abandon the package and waive any claim for its return if it appears the amount is for personal use. If that's...

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Police Cars Wired for Sound and Video . . . So Shut the F*** Up!

April 15, 2021

Here's a pro tip from the drug defense attorneys at GRL Law: If you are placed in the patrol cruiser while the officer searches your vehicle, then don't say a word to anyone, including yourself, about anything. Why? Because the police car is wired for video and audio. Every word you say outside the presence of the officer is recorded to use against you later. Screaming obscenities out of earshot of police? Calling your buddy telling him you'll pay for his attorney if he comes forward and owns it? You've all but admitted you know what's in car. An easy inference for the...

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Breath Test Suppressed After Officer Fails to Explain Rights

April 14, 2021

Iowa provides a limited statutory right to speak with a family member or attorney before submitting to breath testing under Iowa Code section 804.20. Most of the time, the driver must first trigger the right by asking for a phone call while in custody. In this case, the officer instead volunteered the opportunity to make "a call" after invoking implied consent. Thinking this was his one and only call, our client wisely requested an explanation. The officer repeated his offer. And then added the call could be placed either before or after chemical testing. Here's where the officer erred. Section 804.20 permits...

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