Appeal from conviction on drug charges. Vehicle stop. Appellant was driving a rental car, appeared very nervous, and gave suspicious answers about his destination and how long he had been driving. This prompted a police computer check which revealed appellant’s prior involvement in drug-related matters. Officer then conducted dog sniff search on basis of suspicion that appellant had marijuana in the vehicle. Cocaine ultimately located.
Held: No s 8 or 9 violation; appeal dismissed.
Officer’s extensive experience in drug investigations and traffic stops was key; “[t]hings that might seem neutral to a lay person had more significance to this officer”. Additional information from computer check regarding prior drug involvement was sufficient, in addition to the other factors, to give officer a reasonable basis for his suspicion.
S. Wright – Defence Counsel