Alcohol & Drugs: MIP, MIC, Intoxication What are the laws regarding search warrants?

[atsanna]

The Feds ended up at my friend's place yesterday with a bench warrant for his arrest. Yet when his wife asked what the charges were and if she could look at the warrant, they told her all she needed to see was his name on it. They would not tell her any charges. Is this normal? He has now been in jail two days and they have added another charge to the two they already had on him, yet his wife is still in the dark. He was denied bond and was originally told he would not get a court appointed lawyer. They have since called her back and told her her husband would get one by Friday. Has anyone heard of a charge that ends in "by the use of electronic devices"? That is the only thing his wife overheard as they were arresting him. Could somebody please tell me if this sounds right or if his wife should have more info by now.

 

[CdwJava]

Perhaps she should arrange for a visit with her husband and HE can tell her the charges.

If this is indeed a federal case, they may operate under some different rules than local offenders. If he was booked into a local (county) jail, a call to the jail might be in order and perhaps the staff there can tell you the charges.

It's odd that she wouldn't be told as charges a person is booked on is generally not a secret. However, if arrested on a warrant, the charges may not be immediately available as that information might be retained by the originating agency.

Eventually he will be arraigned. She can attend court at that time.

- Carl