Charges dismissed due to police misconduct
The state of Massachusetts has applied its Social Host Law numerous times but bumbling local police blew it on this case. Evidence was thrown out and the charges were dismissed because police entered the North Andover home of Ronald and Susan Smits last April without permission or a search warrant. The couple had pleaded not guilty and maintained their innocence throughout the ordeal. Nonetheless, they’ve spent the past 10 months defending themselves against charges that could have led to significant fines or imprisonment for up to a year.
What do you think? Did the Smits get lucky or were they victims of an overeager police force?
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To learn more:
Parents’ charges dismissed in teen drinking-party case. The Eagle Tribune – March 4, 2011 – Byline: Brian Messenger
Teen partygoers summonsed to court in ’11th hour’. The Eagle Tribune – March 4, 2011 – Byline: Brian Messenger
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