Summary
In Maryland, if civilians open a package with suspected contraband before police involvement, it can compromise the chain of custody, affecting evidence admissibility. This could lead to cases being dismissed. If your friend is involved in such a situation, consulting a local attorney specializing in chain of custody issues is advisable.Full Conversation
Is it true,that if a package is found with suspected contraband,by a property manager,and she opens it herself with another civilian,her maintenance man,tries to figure out what it is,and calls the police a little later,after opening and handling the package,that the chain of custody for the case has been ruined?
In Maryland, the chain of custody is crucial in legal proceedings involving evidence. If a package with suspected contraband is opened by civilians before police involvement, it can potentially compromise the chain of custody. This might affect the admissibility of the evidence in court. Have you or someone else been affected by this situation, and are you considering legal action?
Yes,a friend of mine. He actually arrived while the police were there in office with property manager,saw his box eas gone and went banging on the door,wanting to ask about his box,and or explain any misunderstandings. But the property manager nervously pulled curtain to side and peeped without opening door,nervously saying ohh hiii I’m just working late,gotta get back to work!” Lol
It sounds like a tricky situation with your friend's package. In Maryland, mishandling evidence could indeed affect a case. If your friend is considering legal action, it's crucial to consult with a lawyer who can guide them on the specifics of chain of custody issues. Would your friend like assistance in connecting with a local attorney?
yes that’s what he keeps hearing,that Maryland is big on civilians opening evidence first,and then calling the police. A lint of cases are thrown out because of it
It does seem like your friend is dealing with a complex legal issue related to the chain of custody in Maryland. If they would like, I can help connect them with a local attorney who specializes in such cases. Would they be interested in that?